Plant Colocasia bulbs in individual pots during spring. Keep them in a bright place at a consistent temperature of 17–25°C while they wake from dormancy.
'Solar Mirror'
elephant ears
Dark, glossy and illuminated with brilliant colour, Colocasia 'Solar Mirror' has some of the most extraordinary foliage you could wish for in a tropical garden. Its magnificent, heart-shaped leaves develop a deep, almost black-green colouring, with a beautifully reflective surface that catches the light like polished glass. From the centre of each leaf, vivid lime-green and golden-yellow veins radiate outwards in a striking sunburst pattern, while delicate touches of rose pink add an unexpected warmth. The contrast is remarkable, particularly as the leaves mature and their sculptural, gently rippled texture becomes more pronounced. Colocasia 'Solar Mirror' is a wonderful choice for gardeners who appreciate unusual foliage, looking especially impressive alongside chartreuse plants, vibrant cannas and softly textured ornamental grasses.
With its bold, architectural presence, Colocasia esculenta 'Solar Mirror' transforms an ordinary patio or sheltered border into a wonderfully exotic retreat. This tropical perennial thrives in warm conditions, producing increasingly impressive foliage as the growing season progresses. Plant Colocasia 'Solar Mirror' in rich, moisture-retentive soil, choosing a position in sun or partial shade and keeping it consistently watered during summer. A generous container is an excellent way to appreciate its spectacular leaves up close, while also making winter protection easier. In the UK, move plants somewhere frost-free before temperatures fall too low. Whether displayed individually or among other tropical favourites, Colocasia 'Solar Mirror' brings a fascinating combination of luminous colour, dramatic texture and irresistible tropical character.
Quantity
Plant profile
Position each bulb with the papery rings facing upwards. Leave the top level with, or just visible above, the compost surface.
Water sparingly until shoots emerge, as dormant bulbs may rot in overly wet compost. Once growing strongly, keep the compost reliably moist.
After the risk of frost has passed and the weather is consistently warm, move plants outdoors. Choose a sunny or lightly shaded position sheltered from strong winds.
Plant into rich, moisture-retentive soil, spacing plants 25–35cm apart. For containers, choose a sturdy pot around 30–40cm wide and fill it with peat-free multipurpose compost.
Water generously throughout summer, particularly during warm, dry spells. In autumn, move pots under cover or lift the bulbs and store them somewhere cool, dry and frost-free.
- Botanical name
- Colocasia esculenta 'Solar Mirror'
- Bulb size
- 14/16
- Established height
- 70cm-1m
- Established spread
- 70cm-1m
- Growing skill
- Requires specific conditions
- Habit
- Upright
- Hardiness
- Tender/Tropical
- Leaf colour
- Near-black green, lime-yellow veins
- Mouse resistant
- Yes
- Pollinator friendly
- No
- Position
- Sheltered
- Rabbit resistant
- Yes
- Scented
- No
- Soil acidity
-
Alkaline
Any - Soil moisture
-
Free draining
Damp - Soil type
-
Loam
Multipurpose compost - Suitable for
-
Indoors
Pots
Exotic gardens
Borders
Large containers - Sunlight
-
Partial shade
Dappled shade - Toxicity
- Harmful if eaten
- Years to establish
- 1-2 years
Expert care from
choice to delivery
Our horticulturalists prepare every bulb and plant with the utmost care. From selection to packing, each one receives expert attention before beginning its journey to your garden.