Water
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry.
Reduce watering slightly during cooler months, but never allow the soil to dry out completely, as this can stress the plant.
Also known as Arrow-Leaf Elephant's-Ear · Arum · California Elephants Ear
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Arrowleaf Elephant's Ear (Xanthosoma sagittifolium) is a tropical perennial grown for its large, arrow-shaped leaves and edible tubers, often used as a food source.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Bright indirect light
50% intensity
Thrives in bright, indirect sunlight. Can tolerate partial shade, but may grow less vigorously.
Consistent moisture
75% intensity
Prefers consistently moist, well-draining soil. Avoid letting it dry out completely.
Rich, well-draining soil
50% intensity
Warm temperatures
75% intensity
Prefers average room temperatures between 18-25°C. Protect from cold drafts and temperatures below 10°C.
Moderate feeding
50% intensity
Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 2-4 weeks during the growing season.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 5/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 5/5 intensity |
| Edible | Yes |
All parts of the plant contain calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause oral irritation, swelling, and digestive upset if ingested. Skin contact may cause irritation.
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.
Reduce watering slightly during cooler months, but never allow the soil to dry out completely, as this can stress the plant.
Remove any yellow, brown, or damaged leaves as they appear to maintain a tidy appearance and prevent disease. Pruning is generally minimal, focusing on aesthetic improvements rather than plant health.
Cut back dead foliage in fall.
Propagate by division of the corms (underground stems) in spring. Carefully separate offsets with their own roots and replant them in fresh, well-draining potting mix. Water lightly and keep in a warm, humid environment.
Repot every 1-2 years or when the plant becomes root-bound, typically in spring. Choose a pot that is one size larger than the current one. Use a well-draining potting mix. Ensure the new pot has adequate drainage holes.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Arrowleaf Elephant's Ear (Xanthosoma sagittifolium)
Where Arrowleaf Elephant's Ear (Xanthosoma sagittifolium) 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 sagittifolium |
Similar in genus Xanthosoma
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
