Ace of Spades Plant - Identifier, How to grow, care & benefits

The Ace of Spades plant is a striking and popular ornamental plant, most commonly associated with its rich, dark foliage that resembles the shape of a spade on a deck of cards. This unique plant adds dramatic contrast to any garden or indoor space, and its low-maintenance nature makes it an excellent choice for both beginner and experienced gardeners.

Table of Contents

In this guide, we will cover everything you need to know about growing, caring for, and using the Ace of Spades plant, including its identification, propagation, and landscaping potential.

What is an Ace of Spades Plant?

The Ace of Spades plant is a type of Colocasia, commonly known as Elephant Ear plants, belonging to the Araceae family. This tropical plant is prized for its large, heart-shaped leaves that feature deep, nearly black or dark purple coloring, giving it a dramatic and elegant appearance. The plant’s leaves are smooth, glossy, and often have a velvety texture, making it a focal point in both indoor and outdoor settings.

Native to Southeast Asia and the tropical Pacific islands, Colocasia plants, including the Ace of Spades variety, thrive in warm, humid climates. While primarily grown for ornamental purposes, some varieties of Colocasia have historical uses in food and medicine in certain cultures.

Key Facts About Ace of Spades Plants:

Feature	Details
Botanical Name	Colocasia esculenta ‘Ace of Spades’
Common Names	Ace of Spades Elephant Ear, Black Elephant Ear
Family	Araceae (Arum family)
Native Region	Southeast Asia, Pacific Islands
Growth Habit	Herbaceous perennial, clumping form
Lifespan	Perennial in warm climates; annual in colder climates unless overwintered
Size	3 to 5 feet tall, with leaves reaching up to 2 feet long
USDA Zones	8 to 11 (can be grown in containers in cooler zones)
Uses	Ornamental, tropical landscaping, indoor plant

How to Identify an Ace of Spades Plant

The Ace of Spades plant is easily recognized by its distinctive dark foliage and heart-shaped leaves, which taper to a sharp point, resembling the spade symbol. Its striking dark color contrasts with other green plants, making it a popular choice for adding dramatic flair to garden beds or indoor pots.

Identification Features of Ace of Spades:

Feature	Description
Leaves	Large, heart-shaped, deep purple to nearly black, velvety texture with a glossy sheen. They can reach up to 2 feet long and are borne on sturdy, upright stems.
Stems	Thick, fleshy, and often reddish-brown to black in color, supporting the large leaves.
Growth Habit	Grows in a clumping form, with new leaves emerging from the base and spreading outwards. The plant can reach heights of 3 to 5 feet.
Flowers	Though rare in cultivation, the plant may produce small, spadix-like flowers surrounded by a green or purple spathe, typical of the Araceae family.
Rhizomes	Underground tuberous rhizomes that store energy and allow the plant to regrow annually.

Species Variety

The Ace of Spades is a specific variety of Colocasia esculenta, but there are several related species and cultivars of Elephant Ears that are grown for their unique foliage, including:

Colocasia esculenta ‘Black Magic’: Similar to Ace of Spades but with a matte black finish and slightly smaller leaves.
Colocasia ‘Mojito’: Known for its striking variegated foliage with splashes of black and green.
Colocasia gigantea: A giant variety with huge, green leaves that can reach up to 6 feet in length.

Ace of Spades Plant Care Tips: How to Grow Healthy Ace of Spades

Growing a healthy Ace of Spades plant requires providing the right balance of light, water, and nutrients. This plant is relatively low-maintenance but thrives when its tropical needs are met.

Light Requirements

Partial Sun to Shade: The Ace of Spades plant grows best in partial sun or filtered light. It prefers bright but indirect sunlight, though it can tolerate some direct sun in cooler climates. Too much direct sunlight can cause the dark leaves to scorch.
Indoor Light: If grown indoors, place the plant near a bright window where it can receive indirect light for at least 6 hours a day.

Watering Needs

Frequent Watering: As a tropical plant, the Ace of Spades thrives in consistently moist soil. Water the plant regularly to keep the soil evenly moist but avoid waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.
During the active growing season, water the plant whenever the top inch of soil feels dry.
Misting: The plant enjoys high humidity, so misting the leaves regularly can improve its overall health, especially in dry indoor conditions.

Soil Preferences

Rich, Well-Draining Soil: The Ace of Spades plant prefers rich, loamy soil that retains moisture but drains well. A mix of potting soil and organic compost works well for this plant.
Amend the soil with perlite or sand to improve drainage if needed.
The ideal soil pH is slightly acidic to neutral (around 6.0 to 7.0).

Temperature and Humidity

Warm Temperatures: The Ace of Spades plant thrives in warm temperatures between 65°F to 85°F (18°C to 30°C). It cannot tolerate frost and will need to be brought indoors in regions with cold winters.
High Humidity: This plant prefers high humidity (above 60%), making it ideal for bathrooms, greenhouses, or tropical outdoor gardens.

Fertilizing Ace of Spades Plants

Monthly Feeding: Feed the plant with a balanced liquid fertilizer (such as 10-10-10) every 4 to 6 weeks during the growing season (spring through fall). Reduce feeding in winter when the plant’s growth slows down.

Pruning

Minimal Pruning: The Ace of Spades plant requires minimal pruning. Simply remove dead or damaged leaves to keep the plant looking tidy. New leaves will continue to emerge from the base, so pruning won’t affect its overall growth.

Edibility and Toxicity: Can You Eat Ace of Spades Plants?

While some Colocasia species are cultivated for their edible tubers (like taro), the Ace of Spades variety is primarily grown for its ornamental value and is not typically consumed.

Edible Parts of Ace of Spades:

Tuberous Rhizomes: The underground rhizomes of certain Colocasia species can be consumed, but the Ace of Spades variety is not typically harvested for food. If attempting to eat the rhizomes, they must be cooked thoroughly to neutralize potentially harmful compounds.

Toxicity:

Mildly Toxic: All parts of the Ace of Spades plant, including the leaves and rhizomes, contain calcium oxalate crystals, which are mildly toxic if ingested raw. Ingesting these crystals can cause throat irritation, burning, and gastrointestinal discomfort.

Safety Tips:

Cooking: If you intend to use the rhizomes of any Colocasia variety for food, make sure they are boiled thoroughly to remove the calcium oxalate crystals.
Keep Away from Pets and Children: Ensure that pets and children do not chew on the plant, as it can cause discomfort and irritation if ingested.

Medicinal and Herbal Uses of Ace of Spades: What Are Its Benefits?

Though primarily grown as an ornamental plant, some species within the Colocasia genus have been used in traditional medicine. The Ace of Spades plant itself does not have widespread medicinal uses, but similar species may have applications.

Traditional Medicinal Uses:

Taro (Colocasia esculenta), a close relative of Ace of Spades, has been used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat digestive issues, inflammation, and to boost energy.

Modern Uses:

There are no significant modern medicinal uses for the Ace of Spades plant, as it is primarily valued for its ornamental appeal rather than medicinal properties.

Precautions:

Always consult a healthcare professional before using any part of the Colocasia plant medicinally, as improper preparation can cause harmful side effects.

How to Plant and Propagate Ace of Spades

The Ace of Spades plant can be propagated from tubers, rhizome divisions, or pups (offshoots). Growing the plant from seed is not common, as the flowers are rare, and seed propagation is typically slow.

Planting Ace of Spades from Rhizomes:

Step 1: Choose healthy rhizomes or tubers from a mature plant. Make sure the rhizomes are firm and free of damage.
Step 2: Plant the rhizome about 2-3 inches deep in a pot or garden bed with rich, well-draining soil.
Step 3: Keep the soil consistently moist and place the plant in a bright, shaded location. New shoots will begin to emerge within a few weeks.

Propagation by Pups:

Step 1: Look for pups or offshoots growing at the base of a mature Ace of Spades plant.
Step 2: Carefully dig around the pup and cut it away from the parent plant, making sure to include part of the root system.
Step 3: Plant the pup in a separate pot or directly in the garden, keeping the soil moist and warm.

Best Planting Time:

Spring and Early Summer: The best time to plant and propagate the Ace of Spades plant is in spring or early summer, when the temperatures are warm, and the plant is entering its active growth phase.

How to Use Ace of Spades in Landscaping

The Ace of Spades plant is a versatile addition to tropical gardens, water features, and indoor spaces. Its dark foliage adds a bold contrast to lighter green plants and works well in modern, contemporary, or exotic garden designs.

Aesthetic and Landscaping Benefits:

Foliage Contrast: The deep purple to black leaves provide a stunning contrast to other brightly colored plants or flowers.
Tropical Look: The large, dramatic leaves give a tropical, jungle-like feel to gardens, making them ideal for creating an exotic oasis.
Water Gardens: Ace of Spades thrives near ponds, streams, or in other moist areas where its large leaves can help create shade and add texture.

Design Ideas:

Container Gardens: Grow the Ace of Spades plant in large pots or containers and place them on patios, porches, or by entryways for a dramatic look.
Mixed Borders: Use Ace of Spades as a focal point in mixed borders with other shade-loving plants like ferns, hostas, or caladiums.
Water Features: Plant near water features or ponds to add to the lush, tropical feel.

Pest and Disease Control: Common Problems with Ace of Spades

Though relatively hardy, the Ace of Spades plant can be affected by certain pests and diseases, especially if grown in less-than-ideal conditions.

Common Pests:

Aphids: These small, sap-sucking insects can cause yellowing or curling leaves. Treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Spider Mites: In hot, dry conditions, spider mites may infest the plant, causing yellowing or stippling of the leaves. Misting the plant regularly can help prevent this.
Slugs and Snails: These pests are attracted to the large, moist leaves and can cause holes in the foliage. Use slug bait or traps to keep them away.

Pest Control Tips:

Regularly inspect the plant for signs of pests and treat infestations early with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Ensure good air circulation around the plant to prevent issues with spider mites and fungal infections.

Common Diseases:

Root Rot: Caused by overwatering or poor drainage, root rot leads to yellowing and wilting leaves. Ensure the plant is grown in well-draining soil to prevent this.
Leaf Spot: Fungal leaf spot can develop in overly humid conditions, causing black or brown spots on the leaves.

Solutions:

Improve Drainage: If root rot is suspected, remove affected parts of the plant and improve the soil’s drainage.
Fungicide: Treat leaf spot with a fungicide and improve air circulation around the plant.

Pet Safety: Are Ace of Spades Plants Safe for Dogs and Cats?

The Ace of Spades plant contains calcium oxalate crystals, making it toxic to both dogs and cats if ingested. These crystals can cause irritation of the mouth, tongue, and throat, as well as digestive issues.

Toxicity to Pets:

Toxic to Pets: If ingested, the calcium oxalate crystals in the plant can cause symptoms like drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing in pets.

What to Do if Your Pet Eats Ace of Spades:

If your pet ingests part of the plant, monitor for symptoms like excessive drooling or vomiting. Contact your veterinarian immediately for advice on treatment.

Pet-Friendly Alternatives:

If you’re looking for non-toxic alternatives to grow in a pet-friendly home, consider:

Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)
Areca Palm (Dypsis lutescens)

Where to Buy or Acquire Ace of Spades Plants

The Ace of Spades plant is a popular variety of Colocasia and can be found at most nurseries, garden centers, and online retailers.

Considerations When Buying Ace of Spades:

Look for healthy plants with vibrant leaves and no signs of pests or disease.
Ensure that you’re purchasing from a reputable seller to get a true Ace of Spades variety.

Top Places to Purchase Ace of Spades Plants:

Local Nurseries: Many local nurseries and garden centers carry Elephant Ear varieties, including the Ace of Spades.
Online Retailers: Websites like Etsy, Amazon, and specialty plant stores often have Ace of Spades available as potted plants or rhizomes.

Price Range:

Rhizomes: $8 to $20, depending on size.
Small Plants: $15 to $30 for young plants.
Larger Plants: $30 to $60, depending on the size and maturity of the plant.

The Ace of Spades plant is a beautiful and dramatic addition to any garden or indoor space, with its striking dark foliage and bold, tropical appearance. With proper care and the right growing conditions, this Colocasia variety can thrive and provide year-round interest. Just be mindful of its toxic nature if you have pets or small children. Whether used in landscaping or grown as a houseplant, the Ace of Spades plant is sure to make a stunning visual impact.