Description
Appearance
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Features large, heart-shaped leaves that emerge olive‑green and quickly deepen to a glossy purple‑black, accented by bright spring‑green veins and stems for a dramatic look.
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Exhibits a neat, clumping, upright habit with mature height and spread ranging from 61 to 91 cm (24–36 in.
Growing Conditions
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Recommended for USDA Zones 7b–11; hardy to approximately –14 °C (5 °F); in colder zones can be grown as an annual or lifted and stored tubers for winter.
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Thrives in full sun to part shade, though afternoon shade is beneficial in hot climates to preserve vibrant foliage.
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Prefers moist, well-drained, humus-rich soil and tolerates wet conditions, making it ideal for boggy sites or container planting near water features.
Performance & Care
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Grows vigorously in warm seasons; once established, foliage is disease-resistant and deer‑ and rabbit‑resistant.
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Fertilize regularly, water consistently to maintain moisture (especially in heat), and remove damaged leaves to encourage fresh growth.
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Dig and store rhizomes before frost in cooler climates, or move container-grown plants indoors during winter.
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A clump-forming cultivar that does not send troublesome runners, staying exactly where planted for a tidy look.
📝 Quick Reference
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Height / Spread | ~61–91 cm (2–3 ft) upright clump |
| Foliage | Heart-shaped; olive-green, maturing to purple-black with vivid green veins |
| Light | Full sun to part shade (partial shade preferred in hot regions) |
| Soil & Moisture | Humus-rich, moist but well-drained; tolerates wet sites |
| Hardiness | Zones 7b–11; lift and winter-store in colder zones |
| Care level | Easy; consistent moisture, fertilizing, remove damaged leaves |
| Pest & Disease | Generally resistant |
| Habit | Upright, architectural clump; no spreading runners |
🌸 Landscaping Uses & Highlights
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Works superbly as a “thriller” specimen in large containers, often paired with textured companions like coleus or sweet potato vine.
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An eye-catching focal point in border designs, especially when surrounded by lighter or variegated foliage plants.
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Suitable for planting adjacent to water features, ponds, or rain gardens where moisture is abundant.
⚠️ Handling & Safety
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Treat as a frost-sensitive tropical: lift or protect bulbs before temperatures drop below about 5 °C.
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Be cautious—like all taro species, the plant contains calcium oxalate crystals and can irritate skin or eyes if handled without gloves.
✅ Why Choose Royal Hawaiian® ‘Aloha’?
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Striking tricolor foliage brings dramatic contrast to any design.
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Compact clumping habit avoids invasive spreading.
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Reliable performance in both containers and gardens.
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Minimal care once established: water, feed, tidy as needed





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