Also known as Arbi [colocasia Taro] · Chinese Potato · Cocoyam
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Taro (Colocasia esculenta) is a tropical root vegetable grown for its starchy corms and edible leaves. It thrives in moist to wet conditions.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Bright indirect light to partial shade
75% intensity
Prefers bright, indirect light. Can tolerate some direct sun, but protect from intense afternoon heat. Partial shade is ideal.
Consistent moisture required
100% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist to saturated, mimicking wetland conditions. Avoid drying out.
Rich, moist to wet, well-drained soil
50% intensity
Warm temperatures optimal
75% intensity
Prefers warm temperatures between 20-30°C. Protect from frost; bring indoors if temperatures drop below 15°C.
Outdoor
50% intensity
Feeds well during growing season
75% intensity
Fertilize with a balanced, high-nitrogen liquid fertilizer every 2-4 weeks during active growth.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 5/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 5/5 intensity |
| Edible | Yes |
Contains calcium oxalate crystals which can cause irritation and swelling if ingested or handled without preparation.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Taro thrives in consistently moist to wet conditions, mimicking its natural wetland habitat. Water frequently to keep the soil saturated, especially during active growth.
Allow the soil surface to dry slightly between waterings in cooler periods, but avoid complete desiccation. Ensure good drainage if grown in containers to prevent root rot.
Pruning for taro is primarily for maintenance. Remove any yellowed, damaged, or dead leaves promptly to prevent disease and encourage new growth. Cut leaves back to the base of the plant.
Heavy pruning is generally not required unless managing size or removing unsightly foliage.
Taro is readily propagated through division of its corms or offsets. Carefully separate the smaller corms or 'pups' from the mother plant, ensuring each piece has at least one bud.
Plant these divisions in moist soil or directly in water for aquatic cultivation.
Repot taro when it becomes root-bound or outgrows its current container. This is typically done in spring before the start of active growth. Choose a larger pot with good drainage and fresh, nutrient-rich soil.
Handle the corms carefully to avoid damage during the transplanting process.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Taro (Colocasia esculenta)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Alismatales |
| Family | Araceae |
| Genus | Colocasia |
| Species | Colocasia esculenta |
Similar in genus Colocasia
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
