There are several plants from different genera called elephant ear. That's why you can't generally say whether "the elephant's ear" is generally edible or poisonous. For a correct answer one has to resort to the botanical names.
The taro tuber (Colocasia esculenta) is a specialty in Asia
Colocasia esculenta
The colocasia esculenta, which belongs to the aroid family, is not only edible but even a staple food in its Asian homeland. Similar to the potato, the tuber of the Colocasia esculenta contains a lot of starch. It can be boiled or fried.
Xanthosoma sagitifolium
Xanthosoma sagiitifolium, also an arum family, grows in Suriname. The arrow- or egg-shaped leaves of this vegetable plant can reach a length of up to 60 cm. They are prepared in Suriname in a similar way to spinach.
Kalanchoe beharensis
The Kalanchoe beharensis, which belongs to the thick-leaf family, is not a useful plant. It is considered toxic to all types of pets. They are slightly poisonous to humans. Ideally, it is placed in such a way that neither small children nor pets can reach it.
Haemanthus albiflos
The elephant ear Haemanthus albiflos belongs to the amaryllis family and is a very rare houseplant. Therefore, little can be found on whether this plant is poisonous or not. However, the amaryllis related to this elephant ear is poisonous. It has an irritating effect on the skin and mucous membranes.
This easy-care elephant ear originally comes from South Africa. There it grows in clump-like groups. In our latitudes, the elephant ear is not hardy, but is welcome to stand outside on the balcony or terrace in summer.
For easy propagation, it is best to use the small daughter bulbs that form on the tuber. If these onions are carefully separated from the mother onion and placed individually in pots, they will soon develop strong elephant ears.
The essentials in brief:
- clarify which elephant ear you own
- Colocasia esculenta: Fry or boil the tuber
- Xanthosoma sagiitifolium: Prepare leaves like spinach
- Kalanchoe beharensis: Toxic to pets
- Haemanthus albiflos: non-toxic or slightly toxic, possibly irritating to skin and mucous membranes
tips
Before you use parts of your elephant ear in the kitchen, be sure to clarify what type of plant it is.