Colocasia esculenta ‘Hawaiian Punch’, commonly known as Hawaiian Punch Elephant Ear, is a tropical showstopper prized for its bold foliage and striking color contrast. Large, heart-shaped leaves in deep green rise on vivid, bright red stems that resemble the hue of fruit punch. The crimson coloring continues into the veins of the leaves, creating an eye-catching display from every angle. With its dramatic presence, ‘Hawaiian Punch’ makes an instant statement in the garden, whether used as a focal point in a mixed border, as a container specimen, or around water features for a lush, exotic feel.

This variety is admired not only for its visual impact but also for its adaptability. It thrives in warm, humid environments and can be grown in both moist garden soil and shallow water, making it an excellent choice for pond edges, bog gardens, or tropical-themed plantings. Its bold color and tropical texture pair beautifully with flowering annuals, grasses, and other foliage plants, bringing depth and contrast to the landscape.

Care

‘Hawaiian Punch’ grows best in full sun to part shade, with full sun producing the most intense stem and vein color. It prefers rich, fertile, and consistently moist soil but will also grow well in shallow water up to several inches deep. Regular watering is key, especially during hot weather, as drying out can stunt growth. In regions with a long, warm season, this plant produces rapid, vigorous growth, reaching its mature size in a single summer. In colder climates, it can be grown as an annual or overwintered indoors as a dormant tuber. In frost-free zones, it behaves as a perennial and will return each year if kept protected from extended cold snaps. In Chattanooga’s climate, it is best to mulch heavily over the root zone when the plant is dormant, as occasional freezes outside the normal hardiness range can occur and damage unprotected plants. Applying a slow-release fertilizer or regular liquid feeding during the growing season encourages lush foliage and vibrant stem color.

Growth Habit

This elephant ear typically reaches 3 to 4 feet tall with a similar spread, forming a dense, clump-like mound of upright stems topped with broad leaves. The striking red stems rise boldly from the base, making them especially visible when planted in elevated containers or tiered garden beds. Its compact size compared to larger Colocasia varieties allows it to fit into smaller garden spaces while still delivering dramatic tropical appeal.

Toxicity

Like other Colocasia species, ‘Hawaiian Punch’ contains calcium oxalate crystals and is considered toxic if ingested by pets or humans. Contact with sap may cause mild skin irritation in sensitive individuals, so gloves are recommended when handling. When planted outdoors, it is generally avoided by deer and rabbits, adding to its low-maintenance appeal.