Colocasia esculenta ‘Tea Cup’
 
Common Names Tea Cup Elephant Ear, Raincatcher Taro, Upright Taro
 
Zones 8–11 (outdoors); Zone 7B+ with protection
 
Colocasia ‘Tea Cup’ is a sculptural cultivar prized for its upright, concave leaves that naturally collect rainwater. As the water accumulates, the leaves tilt and pour, then spring back—creating a dynamic, fountain-like display. Its glossy green foliage and dark purple petioles add vertical drama to tropical borders, pond margins, and large containers.
 
Key Features
Growth Habit: Upright clump-forming; spreads via tubers
Height: 5–6 ft. tall; 4–5 ft. wide
Trunk: Herbaceous; no true trunk
Leaves: Glossy green; cupped with dark purple veins; 24–30 in. long
Petiole: Deep burgundy to black; rigid and upright
Inflorescence: Rare; pale yellow spathe and spadix
Fruit: Not typically produced
Ecology: Cultivar of Colocasia esculenta, native to Southeast Asia; selected for architectural leaf posture
 
Growing Conditions
Light: Full sun to part shade; best posture and color in bright light
Watering: High water needs; thrives in moist soil or shallow water
Soil: Rich, moisture-retentive mix; tolerates boggy conditions
Temperature: 65–90°F (18–32°C); protect from frost
Humidity: High humidity preferred; misting recommended indoors
Propagation: Division of tubers or offsets
Tolerance: Sensitive to cold and drought; moderate pest resistance
 
Landscape Use Ideal for pond edges, rain gardens, tropical borders, and large-format containers. Pairs well with Colocasia ‘Coffee Cups’, Thalia dealbata, and Cyperus papyrus for layered water-loving compositions.