A Touch of the Tropics

To encounter Colocasia esculenta ‘Hawaiian Punch’ in summertime is to discover the unexpected, as this striking ornamental taro brings a tropical feel to Greenwood, literally transforming the West Walk into an exotic retreat.

Known universally as elephant’s ear for its oversized, heart-shaped foliage, ‘Hawaiian Punch’ grows with an architectural elegance that is undeniably commanding. Extending up to three feet in height and width, this plant’s immense lime-green leaves unfurl like open palms that catch the sunlight, while glossy crimson stems (petioles) provide a brilliant counterpoint. When a slight breeze drifts through the garden and lifts the foliage, an intricate network of rich crimson veins is revealed beneath each leaf, creating a fleeting display of color and movement.

As a star of the celebrated Royal Hawaiian Series, the history of this cultivar is rooted in scientific innovation. Renowned plant pathologist Dr. John Cho, Emeritus Professor of Plant Pathology from the University of Hawaii (Manoa), originally sought to develop taro with improved resistance to devastating agricultural diseases. Along the way, remarkable ornamental characteristics appeared through meticulous hybridization, leading to the introduction of this exceptional cultivar in 2012. Soon after, gardeners embraced this plant for its dramatic coloration, disease resistance, and striking architectural form.

Whether standing tall and stoic in a garden border, or set gently in motion by a light summer breeze, striking ‘Hawaiian Punch’ transforms a Greenwood moment into something unforgettable, creating a landscape that feels worlds away.