Large decorative dark purple glossy leaves sport golden daisy-like blooms on black stems.
Sometimes called Elephant Ears, this is a bold specimen perennial that needs a moist location. It forms a mound of large, rounded dark, shiny purple-black leaves. Taller stems appear in midsummer, bearing clusters of bright golden-orange daisy flowers. Superb for the back of the border, or at the waterside. An unusual centerpiece for a tub or large container. Both the flowers and leaves are great for cutting. Slugs can be troublesome. Clumps may be divided in the spring, every 3 to 4 years if desired. In warm summer regions plan to grow in this in at least afternoon shade. A 2008 introduction from Jelitto Seeds of Germany.
Blooms mid to late summer
36-40 In
3-9 Find your zone
Partial Sun,Full Shade
Grow warm at 60-70° F with long days keeping soil evenly moist. Once actively growing temperature can be dropped to 55-65 ° F and feed 100 - 1265 ppm N each watering. Provide 35% shade to avoid leaf burn and plant stress. Plants generally finish in 8-10 weeks based on growing conditions.
Plants Per Gallon: 1
Storage Temperature Prior to Planting: 38
Cooler Humidity Prior to Planting: Low
Use a well draining professional potting soil leaving crown of plant at or just above the soil surface. Water well and apply a broad spectrum fungicide according to directions to avoid crown and root rot.
Easy to grow in moist, well-drained soil. Prefers partial sun to full shade.