Colocasia esculenta

Native to eastern Asia, Colocasia esculenta is a tender herbaceous perennial that grows best in organically rich, wet soil and tropical climates. It prefers full sun to part shade or filtered sun and can be a great plant for planting at the edge of the understory of a tree or as a border. It can also be found commonly as a houseplant, though it does require more sun than many houseplants. This plant uses a corm for storage during the winter months and can spread and be divided much like other perennials with storage organs. This organ is used for food (Taro) in many regions of Southeast Asia where it is native. These roots can be identified by their swollen stem tissue and ring-like scars.

This plant is not known for its flowers though it does produce some. It is more widely known for its large and sometimes ornately colored foliage which adds a smooth texture to the landscape.

This plant is only hardy in zones 8-10. Any zones which are colder than these should either use C. esculenta as an annual plant or overwinter the corm indoors from first frost in the Fall, to late April in a cool, dry area that is kept above 45°F. Alternatively you could use C. esculenta as a potted plant and bring the pot inside for the same duration of time.

For best results with young plants or propagation, plant in a 5 gallon pot with rich soil and high moisture in sun to partial shade.

CAUTION! CAUSES SEVERE PAIN IN THE MOUTH IF EATEN!  All parts of the plant are poisonous unless cooked first.