Also known as Elephant Ear
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Capote (Xanthosoma robustum) is a large, tropical aroid with impressive, shield-shaped leaves, often used as a bold ornamental in frost-free gardens.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Bright, Indirect
75% intensity
Prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid direct sun, which can scorch leaves.
Regularly
75% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist, avoid waterlogging.
Rich, well-draining soil
50% intensity
Warm
50% intensity
Prefers average to warm room temperatures between 18-27°C. Avoid cold drafts.
Moderate
50% intensity
Feed during growing season with diluted balanced fertilizer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 3/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 3/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Contains calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause irritation and swelling if ingested or handled.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry to the touch. Reduce watering slightly during cooler months, but never allow the soil to dry out completely.
Yellowing leaves can indicate overwatering or underwatering.
Prune to remove any dead, damaged, or yellowing leaves to maintain plant health and appearance. Cut back stems to encourage bushier growth if desired.
Pruning can be done at any time of year, but is best performed in spring before new growth begins.
Propagate by division of rhizomes or by stem cuttings. For divisions, carefully separate the rhizomes during repotting, ensuring each piece has at least one bud.
For cuttings, take 5-10 cm stem sections with a few leaves and root them in moist soil or water.
Repot every 1-2 years or when the plant becomes root-bound, preferably in spring. Choose a pot that is one size larger than the current one with good drainage holes.
Use a well-draining potting mix, such as a peat-based compost with added perlite.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Capote (Xanthosoma robustum)
Where Capote (Xanthosoma robustum) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Alismatales |
| Family | Araceae |
| Genus | Xanthosoma |
| Species | Xanthosoma robustum |
Similar in genus Xanthosoma
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
