Amazon elephant's ear care: light, water & problems

How to identify it

Arrow-shaped, very dark green (almost black) leaves with thick silvery-white veins and wavy margins.

Light

Bright indirect light. Avoid direct sun, which can scorch the leaves quickly.

Watering

Keep the mix lightly moist, never waterlogged. Reduce watering drastically in winter if it goes dormant.

Conditions vary with pot, season and location. Always check the mix and your plant's response.

Environment and placement

It requires high humidity and consistent warmth. It is highly sensitive to cold or dry air.

Potting mix and feeding

Use an airy, draining mix and a pot with drainage holes. Match pot size to the root ball so excess mix does not remain wet.

Feed only during active growth and follow the product label. Correct damaged roots or poor light before fertilising.

Problems to check

Dry, yellowing tips point to a dry environment or depleted mix.

Cats and dogs

ASPCA lists this species as toxic to cats and dogs. Keep pets from chewing it; contact a veterinarian if ingestion is suspected.

Common question

Why does it lose all its leaves in winter?

If temperatures drop, it may enter seasonal dormancy. Keep the rhizome mostly dry until spring.