Colocasia

Colocasia esculentaAlso known as: Taro, Elephant Ear, Dasheen

Colocasia, commonly known as Taro, is a stunning tropical plant with large, heart-shaped leaves that can grow up to 3 feet (90 cm) long. Native to Southeast Asia and the Indian subcontinent, it has been cultivated for thousands of years as a food crop. As a houseplant, it creates a dramatic tropical statement with its impressive foliage that can be green, black, or variegated depending on the variety.

Moderate Care

Bright Indirect Light

Perennial

Quick Care Summary

Light
Bright Indirect Light

Temperature Range
60-85°F (16-29°C)

Ideal Temp
75°F (24°C)

Toxic to Pets

This plant is toxic to cats and dogs if ingested. Keep it out of reach of pets, or consider pet-safe alternatives. Symptoms of ingestion may include drooling, vomiting, or difficulty swallowing.

Seasonal Care Schedule

Adjust your care routine based on the season for optimal plant health.

Watering Schedule

Season	Schedule
Spring	Every 3-5 days, keep soil consistently moist
Summer	Every 2-3 days, never let soil dry out completely
Fall	Every 5-7 days, reduce as growth slows
Winter	Every 7-10 days, maintain slight moisture

Loves moisture - can even grow in standing water. Yellow leaves may indicate underwatering.

Misting Schedule

Season	Schedule
Spring	Daily or every other day
Summer	Daily, multiple times in dry conditions
Fall	Daily
Winter	Daily, especially with indoor heating

Requires high humidity above 60%. Consider a humidifier or pebble tray.

Fertilizing Schedule

Season	Schedule
Spring	Every 2 weeks with balanced liquid fertilizer
Summer	Weekly during peak growth
Fall	Monthly
Winter	No fertilizing during dormancy

Heavy feeder during growing season. Use nitrogen-rich fertilizer for larger leaves.

Pruning

Frequency: Remove damaged or yellowing leaves as needed

Best Season: Any time during growing season

Cut leaves at the base of the stem. Wear gloves as sap can irritate skin.

Repotting

Frequency: Annually

Best Season: Spring

Use rich, moisture-retentive soil. Choose a pot 2-3 inches (5-7.5 cm) larger. Consider a self-watering pot.

Flowering

Season
Rarely flowers indoors

Color
Yellow-green spadix with pale spathe

Produces calla lily-like flowers in ideal conditions, but primarily grown for foliage.

Propagation Methods

Division of corms during repotting
Separate offsets with roots
Can be grown from grocery store taro root

Common Problems

Yellow leaves: Underwatering or nutrient deficiency
Brown leaf edges: Low humidity or inconsistent watering
Drooping leaves: Needs water or too much direct sun
Spider mites: Common in dry conditions - increase humidity

Pro Tips

Can be grown partially submerged in water gardens
Bring outdoors in summer for explosive growth
Goes dormant in winter - reduce care accordingly
All parts are toxic if eaten raw - handle with care

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