Special Web Offer - Get 50% OFF!
Grab Your Deal Now
PlantSnap
Plant Care
Taro
(Colocasia esculenta)
Also Known As
Taro, Arrowroot, Dasheen, Coco yam
About This Plant
Colocasia esculenta, also known as Taro, is a tropical plant species that is commonly grown for its edible corms and leaves. It is a member of the family Araceae and is native to Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands.
Plant Care Instructions
Outdoor Size Range
48-72 inches (122-183 cm)
Light Requirements
Colocasia esculenta requires bright, indirect light when grown indoors. Outdoors, it prefers partial shade or filtered sunlight.
Humidity Needs
Colocasia esculenta prefers high humidity levels, ideally between 70-80%. It should be misted regularly, especially during dry weather.
Fertilizing Schedule
Colocasia esculenta should be fertilized every 2-3 weeks during the growing season with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer.
Pruning Guidelines
Pruning is not necessary for Colocasia esculenta, but dead or damaged leaves should be removed to prevent the spread of disease.
Common Pests and Diseases
Common pests include spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs. Diseases that can affect Colocasia esculenta include root rot and leaf spot.
Indoor Size Range
36-48 inches (91-122 cm)
Watering Schedule
It requires consistently moist soil, so it should be watered regularly, but not overwatered. The soil should never be allowed to dry out completely.
Temperature Range
It prefers warm temperatures between 65-80°F (18-27°C). It cannot tolerate frost and should be protected from cold temperatures.
Growing Season
The growing season for Colocasia esculenta is from spring to fall.
Growing Difficulty Level
Colocasia esculenta is relatively easy to grow, but it requires consistent moisture and high humidity levels. It can be challenging to grow indoors due to its size.
USDA Hardiness Zones
Colocasia esculenta is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Did You Know?
In Hawaiian culture, Taro is considered a sacred plant and is believed to be the original ancestor of the Hawaiian people.
