Royal Hawaiian Elephant Ear Hawaiian Punch

Royal Hawaiian Elephant Ear Hawaiian Punch is a vibrant perennial admired for its vivid contrast of colors. Its broad, heart-shaped leaves feature a rich green surface, while bright red stems and veins provide an unmistakable accent. Reaching 3 to 4 feet tall and 2 to 3 feet wide at maturity, this variety creates a strong tropical impression in any planting. The upright, full habit gives structure and dimension, making it an excellent choice for borders, focal points, or large containers. Its dramatic foliage provides a season-long display, delivering both texture and bold color to outdoor spaces. 

• Perennial tropical plant
• Upright growth with bold green foliage and red stems
• Heart-shaped leaves with striking vein patterns
• Grows 3–4 feet tall and 2–3 feet wide
• Excellent for borders, accents, or container plantings

Plant in full sun to partial shade with moist, well-drained soil. Hardy in USDA zones 7 through 11, Royal Hawaiian Elephant Ear Hawaiian Punch delivers unforgettable tropical color to landscapes.

Maintenance

Despite its exotic look, Royal Hawaiian Elephant Ear Hawaiian Punch is easy to grow and rewards basic care with dramatic, season-long impact. Here’s how to keep it thriving:

• Watering: Water regularly during the first growing season to help roots establish deeply. Once mature, keep soil consistently moist but never soggy - this variety loves moisture yet suffers in standing water. During peak summer heat, deep watering once or twice a week is ideal. In containers, ensure good drainage and empty saucers after rain.
• Pruning: Trim away old or damaged leaves at the base as they age to maintain a tidy, vibrant appearance. After frost or when growth slows, cut foliage back to the ground. The plant will resprout quickly when temperatures warm again.
• Fertilizing: Feed every 4-6 weeks during the growing season with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer or a liquid feed rich in nitrogen to encourage lush foliage. Stop feeding by early fall to allow the plant to prepare for dormancy.
• Mulching: Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the root zone to conserve moisture, regulate temperature, and enrich the soil. Keep mulch slightly away from the crown to prevent rot. Refresh each spring as new growth begins.
• Winter Care: In warm climates, ‘Hawaiian Punch’ remains evergreen. In cooler areas, treat it as a tender perennial: cut back foliage after the first frost and dig up tubers for winter storage. Store them in a dry, frost-free place and replant in spring after danger of frost passes. Container plants can be overwintered indoors with bright, indirect light and reduced watering.

Common Issues and How to Take Care of Them

‘Hawaiian Punch’ is resilient, but a few common issues may appear in challenging conditions:

• Leaf Yellowing: Usually a sign of overwatering or poor drainage. Allow the top inch of soil to dry before watering again.
• Sun Scorch: Brown patches may form if exposed to intense afternoon sun, especially when newly planted. Provide partial shade during the hottest hours until fully acclimated.
• Spider Mites or Aphids: May appear on undersides of leaves in hot, dry weather. Rinse with water or use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
• Wind Damage: Large leaves can tear in strong winds. Plant in a sheltered spot or near windbreaks for protection.
• Cold Stress: Temperatures below 50 °F can cause leaf droop or spotting. Protect with a frost cloth or move pots indoors before cold snaps.