Taro, Red (Colocasia esculenta)
Taro is a hardy herbaceous tropical perennial plant that is both ornamental and medicinal! It grows and spreads underground through it's edible veggie-like rhizome. Taro is well known for it's use as root vegetable in Hawaii, Indonesia, and Southeast Asia, and is used to make the popular Hawaiian dish, Poi.
Taro is a fast growing vegetable loaded with antioxidants, essential vitamins, fiber and protein. The root also contains magnesium, iron, potassium, manganese, zinc, copper and phosphorous. Heart-shaped elephant ear leaves add a beautiful tropical element to any landscape.
Plant Type:
Perennial Herb
Although cultivated as an annual, Taro is a perennial herb with a thick underground tuber. Taro may be deciduous (lose its foliage in the cold season) or evergreen depending on growing zone.
Harvest Season:
Fall
Taro is ready to harvest 7 months after planting.
Mature Size:
3-6 ft tall and wide
Mature taro plants reach 3-6 feet tall and wide. The leaves themselves can grow up to 3 feet in size. At the base of the plant is one main tuber, which stores nutrients to last the plant through the winter.
Soil & Moisture:
Fertile, well-draining, moist, loamy and acidic soil. Taro prefers consistently moist soil; do not let completely dry out between watering. Under-watering will make the leaves wilt and curl up. Taro is suitable for bogs and water gardens. However, over-watering, will make the plant prone to root rot.
Light Requirements:
Part Shade, Shade, Full Sun
Self-Fertile:
Yes
Taro plants rarely flower or produce seeds and relies on the roots for propagation.
Growth Rate:
Fast
Zone Hardiness:
Outdoors 9-11 with frost protection; Patio/Greenhouse 4+
Our Taro plants are propagated from division or tissue culture and are capable of harvest within 7 months (200 days).
Wondering about your USDA Growing Zone and what you can grow? 🌎🌿 Learn how to find your Zone and grow tropical plants anywhere—Florida to Alaska! 👉 Read the full blog here!
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