Colocasia esculenta ‘Anubis’

Colocasia esculenta ‘Anubis’ is a dramatic, dark-leaved elephant ear that stands out for its deep black to dark purple foliage and bold, architectural form. The leaves are large, heart-shaped, slightly cupped, and have a glossy surface, creating a striking tropical presence. Its stems are dark burgundy to nearly black, complementing the rich foliage and giving the plant a sculptural, statement-making look. ‘Anubis’ is medium to large in size, making it perfect for indoor pots or outdoor tropical beds where bold color and dramatic form are desired.

Origin

‘Anubis’ is a cultivated variety of Colocasia esculenta, bred for its dark, striking leaves and manageable growth. Like all Colocasias, it originates from Southeast Asia and India, where these plants naturally grow in warm, humid environments near rivers and wetlands. This hybrid was selected for collectors who desire bold, dark foliage without the enormous size of some giant Colocasias.

What Makes ‘Anubis’ Special

The defining feature of ‘Anubis’ is its intensely dark leaves, almost black in color, which provide a dramatic contrast to lighter-leaved plants. Compared to other dark-leaved Colocasias like ‘Black Magic’ or ‘Kona Coffee’, Anubis has slightly more upright leaves and a glossier texture, giving it a sleek, architectural appearance. Its strong stems and compact growth habit make it a versatile tropical plant for both indoor and outdoor display.

Care

‘Anubis’ thrives in moist, nutrient-rich soil. Keep the soil evenly damp but avoid waterlogging. Indoor plants should be watered deeply once or twice a week, adjusting for humidity and temperature. Outdoors, it enjoys consistently moist soil or shallow standing water. For indoor plants, a shallow water tray with pebbles can help maintain humidity and promote healthy, vibrant foliage.

It prefers bright, indirect light, with some tolerance for gentle morning or late afternoon sun. Harsh midday sunlight can scorch the leaves, dulling the deep color.

Repot every 1–2 years using a well-draining, moisture-retentive mix such as cocopeat, compost, and perlite. Fertilize every 2–3 weeks during the growing season to encourage bold, healthy leaf growth, and reduce feeding in cooler months when growth slows.

Temperature & Humidity

‘Anubis’ prefers warm temperatures (18–28°C) and high humidity. Indoor plants benefit from misting or a pebble tray. Outdoors, it thrives in partial shade and consistently moist soil, particularly in tropical and subtropical climates.

Pet and Reptile Safety

Like all Colocasias, ‘Anubis’ is not safe for pets or humans due to calcium oxalate crystals in the leaves and stems. It is reptile safe for display purposes if reptiles do not consume the foliage.

Indoor or Outdoor Use

‘Anubis’ works well both indoors and outdoors. Indoors, it makes a dramatic statement plant in bright, humid spaces. Outdoors, it prefers partial shade and consistently moist soil, ideal for tropical garden beds, patio containers, or near water features. While it prefers damp soil, it does not require permanent standing water, though a water tray indoors helps maintain humidity.

Comparison to Other Dark-Leaved Colocasias

• Leaf Color: Deep black to dark purple; glossier and slightly more upright than ‘Black Magic’.

• Visual Impact: Sleek, dramatic, architectural; ideal for modern tropical displays.

• Growth Habit: Upright, medium to large size; versatile for indoor and outdoor spaces.

Summary Care

• Soil: Moist, nutrient-rich, well-draining

• Water: Keep evenly damp; water 1–2 times per week

• Light: Bright indirect light; gentle morning or late sun

• Temperature: 18–28°C

• Humidity: High

• Fertilizer: Every 2–3 weeks during growing season

• Pet Safe: ❌ No

• Reptile Safe: ✅ With caution

Final Thoughts

Colocasia esculenta ‘Anubis’ is a bold tropical plant that combines drama, elegance, and architectural form. Its deep black glossy leaves make it a statement piece indoors or outdoors. With consistent moisture, bright indirect light, and warm temperatures, Anubis thrives and pairs beautifully with lighter-leaved Colocasias or other tropical plants, creating contrast and visual interest in any plant collection or garden setting.