How to Grow Black Magic Taro
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Black Magic Taro
Colocasia esculenta 'Black Magic'
vegetableBlack Magic Taro is a dramatic tropical plant featuring deep purple-black heart-shaped leaves with contrasting lighter veining. Grown primarily for its ornamental foliage and edible corms (underground tubers), this cultivar adds striking visual interest to gardens and containers. The plant thrives in warm, humid conditions and can reach 3-5 feet tall.
When should you plant Black Magic Taro in your zone?
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Example Black Magic Taro timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Black Magic Taro
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Black Magic Taro
Around Aug 15≈ 120 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Black Magic Taro dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 9b-11; can be grown as an annual in zone 9a or cooler with protection
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Get my Black Magic Taro timeline →Growth Stages
Sprouting
2-4 weeksCorm sends up a single shoot; first leaf emerges within 2-4 weeks
Keep soil warm (70-80°F) and consistently moist; avoid waterlogging which causes rot. Protect from cold temperatures
Vegetative Growth
6-12 weeksPlant develops multiple leaves with distinctive dark purple-black coloring and lighter veining; leaf size increases progressively
Maintain consistent moisture and humidity. Apply balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) every 3-4 weeks. Support tall stems if needed. Remove any pale or diseased leaves
Establishment
4-8 weeksPlant reaches full foliage density with mature leaf size (8-12 inches); stems thicken and strengthen
Continue regular feeding with slightly higher potassium fertilizer to support root development. Increase spacing if crowded. Monitor for pests and diseases
Corm Development
8-12 weeksUnderground, corms enlarge and mature while above-ground growth continues or stabilizes
Maintain consistent watering and feeding schedule. Reduce nitrogen slightly to encourage tuber bulking. Avoid nutrient deficiencies
Harvest/Dormancy
Variable; after 4-5 months growthFoliage may yellow slightly as plant enters dormancy; corms are ready for harvest when leaves begin to naturally die back
Once corms mature (4-5 months), reduce watering gradually. Carefully dig and store corms in cool, dry conditions (50-60°F) with good ventilation
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Increase humidity and mist foliage; spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil; encourage natural predators
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Remove with cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol; spray with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap; isolate affected plants
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Hand-pick beetles and eggs; use neem oil or pyrethrin-based insecticides; remove infested leaves
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Ensure excellent drainage; reduce watering frequency; treat with copper fungicide; repot in fresh sterile soil if severe
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Remove infected leaves promptly; improve air circulation; avoid wetting foliage; spray with copper or sulfur fungicide
Uses
Edible Corms
CulinaryThe starchy corms (tubers) are edible when properly prepared and cooked, serving as a staple carbohydrate in many tropical cuisines. Corms must be boiled or roasted to break down calcium oxalate crystals before consumption. [source]
Taro Leaves (Spinach-like Use)
CulinaryYoung tender leaves can be cooked like spinach or used in traditional dishes. The leaves are rich in minerals and vitamins when properly prepared. [source]
Tropical Landscape Accent
OrnamentalThe striking deep purple-black foliage with contrasting veining makes Black Magic an exceptional ornamental focal point in gardens, patios, and interior spaces. Creates dramatic color contrast in mixed plantings and containers. [source]
Traditional Herbal Applications
MedicinalIn traditional medicine systems, taro corms and leaves have been used to support digestion and general wellness. Contains antioxidant compounds and dietary fiber. [source]
Tropical Garden Habitat
WildlifeLarge foliage and moisture-loving nature attract beneficial insects and provide shelter. The plant supports a tropical ecosystem in gardens. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Corms are ready to harvest after 4-5 months when foliage begins to yellow and die back naturally. Carefully dig around the plant to avoid damaging corms. Small cormels (baby corms) develop around the main corm and can be harvested separately or left for future growth. Store corms in a cool (50-60°F), dry location with good air circulation for up to 6 months before replanting. For foliage harvesting, carefully remove outer leaves as needed without stripping the plant bare.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Black Magic Taro's deep purple-black coloring comes from high concentrations of anthocyanins, the same antioxidant compounds found in blueberries and purple cabbage.
- 🌱 Taro is one of the oldest cultivated plants, with evidence of cultivation dating back over 10,000 years in Southeast Asia and the South Pacific, making it older than rice or wheat in some regions.
- 🌱 The name 'Colocasia' comes from the Greek word 'kolokasion,' which was the ancient name for the Egyptian bean, showing how this plant has been culturally important for millennia.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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