What to Plant with Elephant Ears

If you have elephant ears in your garden, you know how striking and unique they can be. Their large, tropical leaves create a dramatic focal point in any space. But what should you plant with elephant ears to complement their beauty? Here are some ideas to help you pair your elephant ears with the perfect partners.

1. Ferns

Ferns are an excellent choice to plant with elephant ears. They have similar growth requirements and thrive in moist soil with partial shade. Ferns also come in a variety of sizes and textures, making it easy to find one that complements your elephant ears.

Try planting a few bird's nest ferns (Asplenium spp.) around your elephant ears. Their crinkled, bright green fronds will add texture and contrast to the larger, smoother elephant ear leaves.

2. Hostas

Hostas and elephant ears are a match made in heaven. Both plants require similar growing conditions, including moisture and partial shade. The contrast between the large, bold elephant ear leaves and the smaller, more delicate hosta leaves is visually pleasing.

Try planting a few 'Blue Angel' hostas next to your elephant ears. Their blue-green leaves will complement the green elephant ear foliage while providing a pop of color.

3. Coleus

Coleus is a tropical annual that complements elephant ears perfectly. Their colorful foliage comes in shades of green, pink, red, and purple. Plant them in a container with your elephant ears or use them as a border plant in a garden bed.

Try planting a few 'Dipt in Wine' coleus plants next to your elephant ears. Their deep burgundy leaves will complement the green leaves of the elephant ears and add a splash of color.

4. Taro

Taro is a tropical plant that is closely related to elephant ears. They have similar foliage and growing requirements, making it easy to pair them together. Taro produces stunning leaves that come in a variety of colors, including green, purple, and black.

Try planting a few black taro (Colocasia esculenta 'Black Magic') plants next to your elephant ears. Their dark leaves will contrast beautifully with the green elephant ear foliage, adding depth and interest to your garden.

5. Caladiums

Caladiums are a colorful tropical plant that can be grown alongside elephant ears. Their heart-shaped leaves come in shades of pink, red, white, and green. They grow well in partial shade and moist, well-draining soil.

Try planting a few 'Candidum' caladiums next to your elephant ears. Their white leaves with pink veins will contrast beautifully with the green elephant ear foliage.

In conclusion, there are many plants that can be planted with elephant ears to complement their beauty. Ferns, hostas, coleus, taro, and caladiums are just a few examples of the perfect partners for your elephant ears. By pairing them together, you can create a stunning, tropical garden that will impress all of your guests.