Colocasia 'Black Beauty'

Colocasia 'Black Beauty'Few plants make an entrance like this one. Colocasia antiquorum 'Black Beauty' unfurls enormous, heart shaped leaves in the deepest purple black so dark and softly sheened they look almost like velvet each one held aloft on a strong stem that catches the slightest breeze. A single well grown plant is enough to turn an ordinary patio corner into something that feels a world away. Despite the jungle looks, it's a willing performer in a British summer.

Few plants make an entrance like this one. Colocasia antiquorum 'Black Beauty' unfurls enormous, heart-shaped leaves in the deepest purple-black — so dark and softly sheened they look almost like velvet — each one held aloft on a strong stem that catches the slightest breeze. A single well-grown plant is enough to turn an ordinary patio corner into something that feels a world away.

Despite the jungle looks, it's a willing performer in a British summer. Give it warmth, rich soil and plenty to drink and it grows quickly, every new leaf larger than the last, building into a bold architectural mound from June until the first frosts. That near-black foliage is the perfect foil for hot colours — plant it among cannas, dahlias and bananas for a proper exotic scheme, or let it lean over the edge of a pond, where it's truly in its element.

Where to grow it

Happiest in full sun or dappled shade, with shelter from strong winds that can tear those magnificent leaves. Pot it into something generous, keep it standing in moisture, and feed it well — these are thirsty, hungry plants, and they repay a good soaking and a regular feed with leaf after dramatic leaf.

Supplied as an established young plant in a 9cm pot, grown here in Norfolk and ready to romp away once the warmth arrives.