Colocasia esculenta ‘Painted Black Gecko’
 
Common Names Painted Black Elephant Ear, Gecko Series Taro, Reflective Black Taro
 
Zones 8–11 (outdoors); Zone 7B+ with protection
Colocasia ‘Painted Black Gecko’ is a compact cultivar from the Gecko™ series, bred for its shimmering black foliage and maroon-gray undersides. Its leaves catch and reflect light with a glossy sheen, offering a dynamic, almost iridescent effect. This variety maintains a tidy clump and is ideal for small gardens, containers, and tropical accents.
 
Key Features
Growth Habit: Moderate clump-forming; spreads via tubers
Height: 3–4 ft. tall; 3–4 ft. wide
Trunk: Herbaceous; no true trunk
Leaves: Deep black with reflective sheen; undersides maroon to gray; 18–24 in. long
Petiole: Dark purple to black; upright and arching
Inflorescence: Rare; pale yellow spathe and spadix
Fruit: Not typically produced
Ecology: Cultivar of Colocasia esculenta, bred in Kentucky by Brian Williams for ornamental foliage
 
Growing Conditions
Light: Part sun to bright shade; prefers afternoon shade in hot climates
Watering: Moderate to high; keep soil evenly moist but not soggy
Soil: Average garden soil with organic matter; well-draining
Temperature: 65–90°F (18–32°C); protect from frost
Humidity: Moderate to high; benefits from misting indoors
Propagation: Tissue culture or division of tubers
Tolerance: Resistant to common pests; sensitive to drought and cold
 
Landscape Use Perfect for foundation plantings, specimen containers, urban gardens, and tropical borders. Pairs well with Colocasia ‘Midnight’, Caladium ‘Dark Star’, and Alocasia ‘Black Velvet’ for layered contrast.