Colocasia esculenta – black magic
An unusually attractive foliage plant, 'Black Magic' is a tuberous, stemless perennial with huge, heart shaped purplish-black leaves on large leaf stalks that can grow nearly a metre in length. It is said to be one of the most spectacular Colocasia plants ever introduced The plant is also commonly known as Taro, Cocoyam or Elephant's Ear, due to its conspicuously veined, downward pointing leaves that resemble the ears of an elephant. Grows in a giant clump nearly to 2m tall and 2m wide. in height and prefers wet conditions and full sun – semi shade.
Alcantarea Imperialis ‘Silver Plum’
This dark-red giant can span over 1.5 meters in ten years. The tough, leathery leaves tinge a deep red in bright light. The thick, red flower spike can grow 2.5 meters high, producing hundreds of lightly fragrant, white flowers. Prefers bright light and can withstand relatively cool temperatures.