Cotocasia esculenta
Family: Araceae

Taro is an important food crop throughout the tropics and is extensively grown in the Pacific Islands, and in many Asian countries. It is known as 'dasheen' in some countries. Grown mainly for its edible tubers, the young leaves are also eaten. Plants grow from a tuberous rhi­zome and vary from 1 to 2 m (3-6 ft) tall. It has large leaves, 40-SO cm (16-20 in) in length. Flowers are arum-like, with a yellowish spathe. In frost-prone and cool climates, grow in a warm greenhouse, in a soil bed or large con­tainer, and provide high humidity.

Cultivation

Plant tubers 5-8 cm (2-3 in) deep in early spring. Soil should be well drained but enriched with manure or compost. Provide abundant water during the growing season. Tubers are ready to harvest in six to seven months. Propagate plants from small, sub­sidiary tubers or from division of the rootstock.

Climate

Warmest parts of zone 10 to tropical.