Colocasia (Elephant Ears)

Colocasia’s large, tropical leaves create sheltered microhabitats for moisture-loving invertebrates, including ground beetles (Carabidae) and orb-weaver spiders (Araneidae), which thrive in the damp shade beneath their foliage. While not a significant pollinator plant, its structure provides refuge for frogs and toads in wetland-style gardens. For ecological impact, pair with UK-native marginal plants like marsh marigold (Caltha palustris) in bog gardens or pondsides, where their architectural leaves enhance biodiversity. Though non-native, Colocasia excels in urban rain gardens, offering cover and humidity that support small-scale ecosystems in sheltered, water-rich environments.