Colocasia esculenta ‘Sangria’ 
 
Common Names Sangria Elephant Ear, Red-Stemmed Taro, Tropi-Cool Taro
 
Zones 6–11 (outdoors); Zone 5B+ with protection
 
Colocasia ‘Sangria’ is a vivid, cold-hardy cultivar from the Tropi-Cool™ series, bred for its brilliant red petioles and bluish-green foliage. Its upright habit and bold coloration make it a striking focal point in containers, borders, and pond margins. Unlike many taros, ‘Sangria’ performs reliably in cooler climates and overwintering zones.
 
Key Features
Growth Habit: Upright clump-forming; spreads via tubers
Height: 4–6 ft. tall; 2.5–3 ft. wide
Trunk: Herbaceous; no true trunk
Leaves: Heart-shaped; bluish-green with purple veins; 24–30 in. long
Petiole: Bright red to burgundy; glossy and upright
Inflorescence: Rare; pale yellow spathe and spadix
Fruit: Not typically produced
Ecology: Cultivar of Colocasia esculenta, hybridized by Brian Williams; bred for ornamental use and cold tolerance
 
Growing Conditions
Light: Full sun to part shade; best stem color in bright light
Watering: High water needs; thrives in moist or boggy soil
Soil: Rich, well-draining mix with organic content
Temperature: 60–90°F (16–32°C); tubers overwinter in Zone 6+
Humidity: Moderate to high; misting recommended indoors
Propagation: Division of tubers or offsets
Tolerance: Cold-hardy to Zone 6; sensitive to drought
 
Landscape Use Ideal for temperate borders, rain gardens, pond edges, and patio containers. Pairs well with Colocasia ‘Pink China’, Canna ‘Red King Humbert’, and Thalia dealbata for layered tropical contrast.