Illustris Colocasia Plant

The large, heart-shaped leaves of the Illustris Colocasia will impress you with its sheer size! With a bright green color and dark purple venation, the richly contrasted leaves of this moisture loving plant are pleasing to the eye. Tolerant of heavy moisture and boggy conditions, this plant will be happiest in moist, shady areas.

Planting Instructions:

• - Plant in late spring or early summer after the last frost date

Soil Preparation:

• - Ideal soil pH: 6.0-7.0

Watering Specifics:

• - Water regularly to keep the soil evenly moist, especially during hot weather

Fertilizer Type:

• - Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer at planting time
• - Supplement with a water-soluble fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season
• - Reduce feeding as the plant matures to avoid excessive foliage growth

Pruning and Training:

• - No major pruning is necessary, but trimming can help maintain shape

Additional Pest Management:

• - Watch for common pests like aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies
• - Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to treat any infestations as needed

Blooming Indicators:

• - Blooms continuously from summer through fall, adding bold color to the garden

Light Requirements:

• - Can tolerate light shade, but flower production may decrease

Temperature Tolerance:

• - Heat-tolerant but should be protected from extreme heat to prevent stress

Companion Plants for Celosia:

• - Marigolds: Their pest-repelling properties and bright colors make them a beneficial companion for Celosia
• - Zinnias: The bold, colorful flowers of Zinnias complement the unique blooms of Celosia
• - Salvia: Their spiky flowers add vertical interest and attract pollinators, complementing Celosia
• - Verbena: The trailing habit and clusters of small flowers of Verbena create a striking contrast with Celosia
• - Coleus: The vibrant foliage of Coleus pairs well with the bold flowers of Celosia in garden beds and containers