Colocasia Teacup

Colocasia ‘Teacup’ is a charming dwarf elephant ear variety known for its compact size and delicate, cup-shaped leaves. Unlike larger Colocasias, ‘Teacup’ grows to a manageable height of around 30–45 cm, making it ideal for indoor pots, small gardens, or even decorative tabletop displays. The leaves are bright to medium green, with subtle veining and a slightly glossy finish, giving the plant a fresh, vibrant look. Its petite stems are sturdy and proportionate to the small leaves, creating a balanced and tidy appearance.

Origin

‘Teacup’ is a cultivated variety of Colocasia esculenta, originally from tropical Southeast Asia and India. Like other Colocasias, it naturally grows in moist, shaded areas near rivers and wetlands. Its small size makes it well-suited to container growing and indoor plant collections.

Care

Colocasia ‘Teacup’ thrives in moist, nutrient-rich soil. Keep the soil evenly damp but not waterlogged. Indoor plants should be watered deeply once or twice a week, adjusting for humidity and temperature. Outdoors, it enjoys consistently moist soil or placement near a water feature. For indoor plants, a shallow tray with water and pebbles beneath the pot can help maintain humidity and prevent the soil from drying out.

It prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate some gentle morning or late afternoon sun. Avoid harsh direct sunlight, which can scorch the delicate leaves.

Repot every 1–2 years, ideally in spring, using a soil mix that retains moisture while providing good aeration, such as cocopeat or peat moss combined with compost and perlite. Fertilize every 2–3 weeks during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer to support compact and healthy growth. Reduce feeding during the cooler months when the plant slows down.

Colocasia ‘Teacup’ prefers warm temperatures (18–28°C) and moderate to high humidity. Indoor plants benefit from occasional misting or a humidity tray. In cooler months, slightly reduce watering but avoid letting the soil dry out completely.

Pet and Reptile Safety

Colocasia ‘Teacup’ is not safe for pets or humans, due to calcium oxalate crystals in the leaves and stems. It is considered reptile safe for display in terrariums where reptiles do not consume the foliage.

Indoor or Outdoor Use

‘Teacup’ is versatile and can thrive both indoors and outdoors. Indoors, it makes a delightful, compact statement plant for bright, humid spaces. Outdoors, it works well in shaded garden beds or in pots near ponds where the soil remains consistently moist. It prefers constant moisture but does not require permanent standing water.

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: Moderate to high

• Fertilizer: Every 2–3 weeks during growing season

  
  

Final Thoughts

Colocasia ‘Teacup’ is perfect for plant lovers who want all the tropical drama of an elephant ear in a small, manageable package. Its compact size, unique cup-shaped leaves, and vibrant green color make it a joy to display indoors or outdoors. Keep it moist, warm, and in bright, indirect light, and you’ll be rewarded with a cheerful, tropical miniature that can brighten any corner of your home or garden. Even though it’s petite, it still brings the lush, tropical vibe of larger Colocasias into your space — making it a must-have for collectors or anyone wanting a touch of the tropics without taking up too much room.