Colocasia
( koll - uh - KAY - zee - uh )
At-A-Glance InformationCommonly called Taro, Elephant's Ear, or Cocoyam, these tropical plants are native to southeast Asia and India. These plants are eaten in many areas of the world, and have edible tuber roots. Colocasias are invasive along the American Gulf Coast, where they invade wetland habitats. These tropical foliage plants have many applications, including as both outdoor and indoor ornamental plants as well as crop-producers of root vegetables.
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Colocasia Species and Varietals
The genus Colocasia includes 12 species, and is a member of the plant family Araceae. In general, Colocasia plants grow well in zones 1-9 as annuals and in zones 16-26, H1 and H2 as perennials. To find your zone, click here: Zone Map.
Colocasia antiquorum (Eddoe, Chinese Eddoe) This species is closely related to Colocasia esculenta (Taro), and is sometimes included in that species as a varietal. These plants are cultivated for their edible storage roots and young leaves. These plants are also grown for their ornamental value, and are commonly kept as houseplants. |
Colocasia esculenta (Taro) This root vegetable is the most widely cultivated in its plant family (Araceae), and is believed to be one of the earliest intentionally cultivated plants in the world. Taro is native to southern India and southeast Asia. There are many different names for these plants depending on the region of the world they are grown in. Leaves are green and very large, sprouting from a basal rhizome. |
Colocasia fallax (Silver Leaf Dwarf Elephant Ear, Dwarf Taro) These plants are native to the Indian subcontinent, China, and southeast Asia. This perennial plant is considered a 'spreader', and is commonly cultivated as a houseplant. This species prefers moist soil and humid conditions, and loves growing along banks of ponds and other bodies of water. Its native habitats include dense forests, valley scrublands, and moist stream banks. |
Caring for colocasia
Propagation
Problems and Pests
Colocasia plants are susceptible to the following issues and pests:
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Gallery
Videos
Learn about these interesting houseplants.
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An educational video about Cast-Iron Plant.
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Resources
The New Sunset Western Garden Book: The Ultimate Gardening Guide (2012) - Page
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