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The ‘Illustris’ variety of Colocasia esculenta is a popular choice for its dramatic foliage, which features deep purple-black leaves with striking, contrasting bright green veins. It’s a vigorous and fast-growing plant that brings a tropical flair to any garden or container.

Here’s a guide to its care for a illustris :
Light
- Sun or partial sun is best. For the most vivid and pronounced dark coloration on the leaves, ‘Illustris’ needs plenty of light. In a shadier location, the leaves will be more green with less of the deep purple-black hue.
- Provide a sheltered spot, as its large leaves can be damaged by strong winds.
Water
- Loves water. ‘Illustris’ is a moisture-loving plant and thrives in wet to boggy conditions. It’s an excellent choice for a water garden, pond margins, or rain gardens.
- Keep the soil consistently moist. Do not let the soil dry out, as this can cause the plant to wilt and the leaves to burn. The plant can be grown in up to 6 inches of standing water.
Soil
- Prefers organically rich, fertile soil. A humusy, well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH is ideal.
- Amend the soil with compost or other organic matter to provide the necessary nutrients for its rapid growth.
Temperature and Humidity
- A heat-loving tropical plant. ‘Illustris’ grows best in warm temperatures, typically between 70-95°F (21-35°C).
- It is not frost-tolerant. You’ll need to protect it from freezing temperatures.
- High humidity is beneficial and helps the plant maintain its lush, healthy appearance.
Fertilization
- A heavy feeder. To support its large leaves and fast growth, ‘Illustris’ requires regular fertilization during its active growing season (spring and summer).
- Use a balanced or slightly nitrogen-rich liquid fertilizer every two weeks, or apply a slow-release granular fertilizer at the beginning of the season.
Overwintering
- Hardy in USDA Zones 8-11. In these warmer climates, you can leave the tubers in the ground. They will go dormant during the winter and sprout again in the spring.
- In colder zones (7 and below), you have two main options for overwintering:
- Grow it as a houseplant: Keep it in a pot and bring it indoors before the first frost. Place it in a well-lit location and continue to water, but you can reduce the frequency of both watering and feeding.
- Store the tubers: After the first frost has killed the foliage, cut back the stems, dig up the tubers, and allow them to dry for a few days. Store them in a cool, dark, and dry place (e.g., in a box with dry peat moss or wood shavings) where the temperature stays between 35-45°F (2-7°C).

Other Tips
- Pruning: Remove any dead, damaged, or yellowing leaves to maintain a tidy appearance and direct the plant’s energy towards new growth.
- Pest control: Keep an eye out for common pests like spider mites, aphids, and whiteflies, especially when grown as a houseplant.
- Toxicity: Like other Colocasia species, all parts of the plant are considered toxic if ingested. The sap can also be a skin irritant. Handle with care and keep away from pets and small children.
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