Taro (Colocasia esculenta)

Also known as: Yam, Madhumbe, Magogoya, Arbi, Caladium, Malanga , Coco yam, Dasheen

Taro (Colocasia esculenta), originating from southern India and Southeast Asia, is a tropical plant primarily cultivated for its edible starchy roots. It holds historical significance as one of the oldest cultivated crops and is used in a variety of culinary dishes.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Taro

Lifespan

Perennial, Annual

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

1 m to 2 m

Spread

90 cm to 1.8 m

Leaf Color

Green Red Variegated Purple

Flower Size

2 cm

Flower Color

White Yellow

Images of Taro

Quickly Identify Taro

Large heart-shaped leaves measuring 2 feet (60 cm) in length and width.

Distinctive inflorescences with cream to golden yellow spathe, 13-24 cm (5-9.5 inches) long.

Thick, short stem forming a tuber, with rough, fibrous surface and ring-like scars.

Fleshy petiole measuring 10-31 inches (25-80 cm) extending from leaf center.

Yellow-brown berries in clusters with globoid shape and slightly glossy surface when ripe.

Scientific Classification of Taro

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Monocotyledons

Order

Water plantains and allies

Family

Arum

Genus

Colocasia

Species

Taro

Planting and Growing of Taro

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 4 days

Sunlight Requirements

Partial sun

Sunshine Duration

4-8 hours

Ideal Temperature

77-86℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

5.5-7

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Taro?

Colocasia esculenta prefers consistently moist soil, so it is essential to water deeply, ensuring the water reaches the root level. Water around 250 ml each time, allowing excess water to drain away to avoid stagnation.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Taro? ›

What should I do if my Taro is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Taro? ›

How to save an overwatered Taro? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Taro?

Sunlight Requirements: Partial sun, Full shade

Duration of light: 4 to 6 hours

Colocasia esculenta performs best under partial sun conditions. Ideal light encourages robust foliage development and vibrant color, enhancing its exotic appeal while supporting overall healthy growth.

How much light is ideal for Colocasia esculenta? ›

How to ensure Colocasia esculenta receives adequate light? ›

Benefits of ideal lighting for Colocasia esculenta. ›

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Taro?

Ideal Temperature: 77 ~ 86℉

Colocasia esculenta thrives in warm and humid conditions. The ideal temperature range for optimum growth is between 77°F and 86°F, where metabolic processes operate efficiently. This range provides the plant with the right amount of heat, promoting healthy foliage and tuber development.

What Soil is Best for Taro?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam

Soil PH: 5.5 ~ 7

Colocasia esculenta thrives in soil that can retain moisture effectively. Loamy soil, with its ideal texture, provides the perfect balance for retaining water without becoming overly saturated. This is beneficial for the plant as it prevents drying out while ensuring proper aeration for roots. A key requirement for Colocasia esculenta is nutrient-dense soil. Loamy soil typically offers higher organic content, which translates to readily available nutrients essential for the plant's vigorous growth and large foliage development. This inherent fertility supports the overall health and color vibrancy of the plant. While moisture is essential, Colocasia esculenta also requires soil that drains well to prevent root rot. Sandy loam soils are ideal as they allow excess water to escape while retaining enough moisture for plant needs. This creates an optimal growing environment free of stagnant water issues.

How to Fertilize Taro?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

Colocasia esculenta, commonly known as taro, benefits from moderate fertilization. A general guideline is to use a balanced liquid fertilizer at half strength. Apply two tablespoons per gallon of water during the growing season. If using granular fertilizer, aim for about a teaspoon per square foot around the plant.

How to Prune Taro?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer

Start by identifying any dead or yellowing leaves, which should be cut off at the base. Use sharp, clean scissors or pruning shears to avoid damaging the plant. Next, focus on any long stems that are becoming untidy or interfering with the desired shape of the plant. Trim these back to a leaf node to encourage bushier growth. Ensure you maintain the natural growth pattern for the best aesthetic and health results. For advanced pruning, focus on shaping the plant for optimal light exposure and airflow. Remove some of the older, larger leaves to let light penetrate to the base, which encourages new leaf growth. Prune selectively to create a balanced shape, and look out for crowded spots—thinning these can prevent fungal infections and promote faster growth. Always assess the plant's natural growth habit, allowing it to guide your pruning decisions.

How to Propagate Taro plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early spring

Before division, water the plant thoroughly to ensure the soil is moist and the roots are hydrated. This helps in easier extraction of the plant from the ground or container without causing root damage.

Carefully dig up the Colocasia esculenta and divide the rhizomes, ensuring each piece has at least one or two shoots and intact roots. Use a sterilized sharp knife or pruners to minimize the risk of disease.

Replant each division in a prepared bed or container filled with well-draining soil. Plant the divisions at the same depth they were growing previously to ensure stability and proper growth.

How to Repot Taro plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 1-2 years

Repotting Colocasia esculenta is usually needed when you notice the roots circling the pot or coming out through drainage holes. The plant may also show stalled growth, which is a signal that it's time to give it more room to grow. Performing repotting in spring or summer when growth is active ensures the plant adapts quickly to its new environment.

Selecting a pot for Colocasia esculenta requires considering the plant's growth. Choose a pot that is just one or two sizes larger than the current one. This slows down excessive growth while providing ample space for root expansion. Ensure the pot has proper drainage holes to prevent root rot, which can be quite common if water is allowed to stand at the bottom.

The soil should be well-draining with rich organic content to support the robust growth needs of Colocasia esculenta. Incorporating compost or peat moss into the soil mix helps retain the necessary moisture without waterlogging the plant. The right soil will provide the ideal balance of moisture retention and aeration, promoting healthy root development.

Toxicity of Taro

Is Taro toxic to humans?

When consumed in an improper manner or uncooked, taro can pose significant risks to human health due to its inherent toxic properties. The severity of these effects can range from mild to severe, primarily caused by the presence of calcium oxalate crystals found throughout the plant. Symptoms may include a burning sensation and swelling in the mouth, difficulty in breathing and swallowing, pain, vomiting, and excessive salivation. Even minimal contact with the mouth can lead to irritation and a burning feeling. Children are particularly susceptible to the adverse effects of this plant, so it is crucial to keep it out of their reach if you choose to cultivate taro as an ornamental plant in your garden.

Is Taro toxic to cat?

Masticating any portion of the taro plant (Colocasia esculenta) results in the release of calcium oxalate crystals, which are moderately harmful to cats. These crystals can cause significant mouth irritation, leading to pain and swelling. If ingested, they may induce vomiting and diarrhea. In some instances, the swelling in the airway can make breathing difficult for the cat. In these situations, seeking veterinary assistance may be required.

Is Taro toxic to dog?

Taro possesses a moderate level of toxicity for dogs upon ingestion. Signs may involve discomfort and swelling in the mouth, tongue, and lips, along with excessive drooling, vomiting, and trouble swallowing, after chewing any part of the plant. Additionally, it has the potential to cause kidney damage, so it is recommended that you reach out to your veterinarian if you believe your dog has consumed this plant.

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.