View basket “White Genoa Fig Tree” has been added to your basket.

Taro Root (Colocasia Esculenta)

(Colocasia Esculenta)

Taro is a tropical, starchy root crop valued for both its edible corms and attractive heart-shaped leaves, which can be harvested throughout the growing season. The tubers or corms are toxic if eaten raw.

The light purple corms, or tubers, can be roasted, baked, or boiled, developing a naturally sweet, nutty flavour. It’s fine, easily digestible starch is often used in baby food and other nutritious dishes.

Taro root must be thoroughly peeled and fully cooked before eating. Boiling, steaming, frying, or baking neutralises the naturally occurring calcium oxalate crystals, making the corm safe to consume. Never eat taro root raw, as it can cause irritation of the mouth and throat.

Taro corms do not store well for long periods, so they are best harvested as needed for maximum freshness and flavour.

Taro leaves are often used as a natural wrapping for cooking.

Please note that our imported tropical plants may arrive smaller in size than expected. This is completely normal, as young plants are shipped to ensure they travel safely and establish well in their new environment. With proper care, warmth, and growing conditions, they will develop quickly and grow into strong, healthy, mature plants.

Scroll Down for the Growing information:

SKU: TROP-TAR-01 Categories: All Tropicals, Taro Root

Description

Position

Partial sunlight or dappled shade.

Size

It is a root crop with heart shaped leaves. The tubers need to be planted, at least 5 – 10 cms deep and 100 cm apart after the last frost in spring.

Soil Type

Rich, fertile, well-draining soil with a pH between 5.5 – 6.5. To bring the pH level of soil down, add a bag of acid compost. Also, adding half a bag of Volcanic Rock Dust and a bag of Superfrass will help promote rapid growth and protect roots from pest infestation.

Watering

Taro root requires consistent and deep watering. Can survive in waterlogged or boggy soil for a short period.

Mulching

Add a thick layer of pine bark mulch, keeping it about 20 to 30 centimetres away from the tree trunk (any closer may cause excess moisture and damage the trunk). Pine Bark mulch helps retain moisture in the soil and prevents weeds.

Fertilising

Apply 1 teaspoon every 4 months of our slow-release all-plant fertiliser. The roots will absorb what they need. Supplement with potassium if necessary.

Harvesting

Taro root will be ready to harvest 7 to 12 months after planting. It’s time to harvest when the leaves turn yellow and die back. Carefully lift the tubers from the ground without damaging them.

Pests & Diseases

Susceptible to root rot, so make sure that the plants don’t lie in deep water for too long. Best to keep a watch and preferably use preventative measures by spraying with agricultural Neem Oil or Effective Microorganisms (EM Control)