Best ways to use elephant ear plants in the landscape
1. Create a tropical focal point
Plant elephant ears where their bold foliage can be appreciated, such as:
- Near the entrance of a home
- In the centre of a garden bed
- At the end of a pathway
- Around patios or seating areas
One large specimen can become the centrepiece of an entire landscape.
2. Plant in groups
Planting three, five, or more elephant ears together creates a dense, jungle-like effect. Mixing different varieties with green, black, or variegated leaves adds extra visual interest.
3. Around ponds and water features
Elephant ears naturally thrive in moist soil, making them ideal companions for:
- Garden ponds
- Streams
- Waterfalls
- Rain gardens
Their large leaves reflect beautifully on the water and soften the edges of hard landscaping.
4. Background planting
Because many varieties grow 1.5–3 metres tall, they make excellent background plants behind:
- Flowering perennials
- Ornamental grasses
- Low shrubs
- Annual flower beds
They provide a dramatic green backdrop that highlights colourful blooms.
5. Shade gardens
Many elephant ears perform well in partial shade, making them perfect for brightening areas beneath trees or along the north side of buildings (in the Northern Hemisphere).
Good companion plants include:
- Hosta
- Fern
- Caladium
- Coleus
6. Containers and patios
Growing elephant ears in large decorative pots creates an instant tropical display on:
- Patios
- Decks
- Courtyards
- Balconies
Container-grown plants can also be moved indoors or sheltered during cold weather.
7. Privacy screens
Tall varieties planted in rows can form a lush seasonal screen that helps:
- Block unattractive views
- Separate outdoor spaces
- Add privacy around seating areas
Although they die back in cold climates, they provide excellent summer screening.
Landscape design tips
- Leave 90–180 cm between large varieties to allow room for mature leaves.
- Combine coarse elephant ear foliage with finer-textured plants for contrast.
- Use dark mulch to make the bright green leaves stand out.
- Plant where the leaves have room to spread without blocking walkways.
- Water regularly during hot weather to keep foliage healthy and lush.
Companion plants
Elephant ears pair beautifully with:
- Canna
- Banana
- Bird of Paradise
- Croton
- Papyrus
- Liriope
- Impatiens
These combinations create layered textures and a vibrant tropical atmosphere.
Things to consider
- Most elephant ears grow best in fertile, consistently moist soil.
- Protect plants from strong winds, which can tear the large leaves.
- In regions with freezing winters, lift and store the tubers (for some species) or grow them as annuals if they are not hardy.
- Wear gloves when handling the plants, as the sap contains calcium oxalate crystals that can irritate the skin.
With thoughtful placement, elephant ears can transform an ordinary garden into a lush, dramatic landscape that provides bold texture and impressive foliage from spring through autumn.