Taro - Colocasia esculenta (Care, Characteristics, Invasive, Images, Toxic)

Taro

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

Taro (Colocasia esculenta) is a tropical plant native to southern India and Southeast Asia. It is most commonly grown as a root vegetable and has a wide variety of culinary uses. Taro is considered one of the most ancient crops in history.

Scientific classification

Species

Taro (Colocasia esculenta)

Water plantains and allies

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Toxic to Human & Pets

Toxicity

Perennial, Annual

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Summer, Fall

Bloom Time

Late summer, Early fall, Mid fall

Harvest Time

1 m to 2 m

Plant Height

90 cm to 1.8 m

Spread

Green, Red, Variegated, Purple

Leaf Color

2 cm

Flower Size

Cream, Tan

Fruit Color

White, Yellow

Flower Color

Green

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Moderate

Growth Rate

Images of Taro

Distribution of Taro

Distribution Map

Taro is native to freshwater habitats in Asia. It is also an introduced species in most other tropical regions worldwide.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Low-lying areas along streams and river banks

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Economic Value

The entire taro plant can be used as pig feed.

Garden Use

Taro is a common tropical plant. It is prized for its large, deep green leaves and for the food that it produces. It is often grown in tropical and semi-tropical gardens. Its companion plants include ginger, lilies, and lemongrass, which also do well in semi-shade growing environments and have similar uses.

Symbolism

Sanctity, connection with one's ancestors

Interesting Facts

It is said that a king was chased into a mountain, hungry and tired. Insurgents at the foot of the mountain set fire to it and the king survived. He smelled a burst of fragrance and discovered there was taro in the field that had been roasted in the fire. He ate the taro and escaped.

Name Story

Taro||Kalo||Elephant ear: It is one of the oldest cultivated crops. The annual production of Colocasia esculenta in Nigeria is about 3.3 million tons, establish itself as the largest producer of Colocasia esculenta in the world. Moreover, Taro is derived from Kalo. If it was planted as an ornamental plant, it would be called the elephant ear because its leaves are very much like elephant ears.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Taro, including the following common varieties :

Elephant ears 'Black Magic'Elephant ears 'Mojito'Taro 'Hawaiian Punch'Taro 'Blue Hawaii'Taro 'Fontanesii'Coco yam 'Thailand Giant'Taro 'Kona Coffee'Taro 'White Lava'Taro 'Black Coral'Taro 'Diamond Head'Taro 'Illustris'

Toxicity

Taro is toxic to humans, cats, and dogs when ingested or contacted. It causes mouth pain, swelling, vomiting, and difficulty breathing. Calcium oxalate crystals in the plant are responsible for the symptoms. Children and pets are particularly vulnerable. Immediate veterinary care is necessary for pets showing severe symptoms.

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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.

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Care Guide for Taro

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Taro thrives in high humidity and consistent moisture, requiring weekly watering and wet soil. Not drought-tolerant, it demands regular hydration to support vigorous growth, particularly during its active growing season, reflecting its tropical origins as an herbaceous perennial commonly grown outdoors.

Fertilize: Taro thrives with a balanced high-phosphorus and potassium fertilizer for lush foliage and roots. Apply a slow-release formula bi-monthly in growing seasons, reducing in winter. Monitor for salt buildup and flush soil regularly; ensure even distribution away from stems and leaves.

Pruning: Prune taro in early to late spring by removing dead or damaged leaves for better air circulation and reduced disease risk. Trim excessively long stems to maintain shape and promote healthy growth, aiding energy conservation for tuber development. Sanitize tools to prevent infection.

Propagation: Taro propagation takes place in Spring using tubers, which is relatively easy. Successful propagation is indicated by fresh shoots. For optimal results, maintain warmth and moisture for the tubers.

Repotting: Repot taro in early spring to accommodate its fast growth. Select a large container for its heart-shaped leaves and rhizomatic roots. After repotting, ensure high humidity and indirect light to aid recovery.

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Images of Taro

Distribution of Taro

Culture

Cultivars

Toxicity

Quickly Identify Taro

Care Guide for Taro

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