How to Care for Colocasia esculenta (Taro)
Korean name: 콜로카시아(토란)
Colocasia is a foliage plant with large, heart-shaped leaves that are thick and decorative. It is cultivated for its edible tubers and prefers humid environments. The plant grows tall and requires careful watering.
Key facts
- Category: Foliage plant
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Where to keep: indoors or outdoors
- Native to: South Asia
- Growth rate: Fast
- Pets: Mildly toxic, so keep pets from chewing on it.
- Traits: large leaves, edible, humid environment, medium difficulty
- Also known as: Taro, Elephant Ear, Colocasia
Care Guide
- Light: Grows well in partial shade, avoid direct sunlight.
- Watering: Water thoroughly when the soil feels dry.
- Soil: Well-draining soil is recommended.
- Humidity: Prefers high humidity.
- Temperature: 18~27°C
- Fertilizer: Apply slow-release fertilizer once a month during growing season.
Common questions
How often should you water Colocasia esculenta?
Water thoroughly when the soil feels dry. Roughly every 7 days is the baseline; adjust for the season and the spot it sits in.
Where should you keep Colocasia esculenta?
Light: Grows well in partial shade, avoid direct sunlight. You can grow it indoors or outdoors. Soil: Well-draining soil is recommended.
Is Colocasia esculenta safe around pets?
Mildly toxic, so keep pets from chewing on it.
Is Colocasia esculenta good for beginners?
Difficulty: Moderate. Temperature: 18~27°C. Humidity: Prefers high humidity. Fertiliser: Apply slow-release fertilizer once a month during growing season.