‘Thailand Giant’ elephant ear (Colocasia gigantea) is rated as an annual (USDA hardiness zone 8-10), where the growing season may last 300 days and longer. Thailand Giant develops into a massive 9- foot tall plant with attractive grey-green foliage species. In the Southern Appalachian and Middle Atlantic regions they may reach 5 – 6 feet before autumn freezes killed this non-hardy tropical elephant ear. Its gigantic leaves and tropical appearance catches your eye.

Thailand Giant can be planted safely outdoors in a large heavy container or a garden bed in mid-May in the Southern Appalachian region (USDA hardiness zones 6 and 7). Heat, humidity, and soil moisture are key factors for success. It grows best in partial (6-hours minimum) to full sunlight and in a rich loamy well-drained soil. Deeply water Thailand Giant frequently during long rainless intervals, 2 inches or more weekly.

Clusters of large fragrant white flowers form at an early age, but most are hidden under the enormous sized foliage. It blooms all summer long. Individual leaves may grow in excess of 3-5 feet long and 2-3 feet in width when luxuriantly watered and fertilized on a regularly. Feed with a water-soluble fertilizer such as Miracle-Gro™ or Daniels™, applied every two weeks through late August.

In the fall before first frost, cut back the foliage, dig up the plant, cut off stems and leaves, and transplant into a large container filled with moist soil (or potting media). Store in a cool place (40-45 °F), such as an unheated garage, over the winter. Keep the potting media moderately (not totally) dry. The whole crown (minus leaves and petioles) should remain intact and dormant through the winter. Begin to re-watered in early spring as the frost threat has subsided.