How to Grow Colocasia Nicobar
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Colocasia Nicobar
Colocasia gigantea 'Nicobar'
vegetableColocasia Nicobar is a giant tropical aroid grown for its large, edible corms and impressive foliage. This cultivar produces enormous heart-shaped leaves with dark green coloring and prominent veining, making it both ornamental and productive. The underground corms are a staple starch crop in tropical regions.
When should you plant Colocasia Nicobar in your zone?
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Example Colocasia Nicobar timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Colocasia Nicobar
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 Colocasia Nicobar
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Colocasia Nicobar dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 10b-11; grows best in warm, humid tropical and subtropical climates
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Get my Colocasia Nicobar timeline →Growth Stages
Corm establishment
2-4 weeksNewly planted corms develop root systems underground while initial shoots emerge from the top
Keep soil warm (70-80°F), consistently moist, and ensure good drainage. Protect from cold temperatures.
Vegetative growth
3-5 monthsRapid leaf expansion with multiple large heart-shaped leaves emerging from the corm, creating an impressive canopy
Maintain consistent moisture and humidity. Feed monthly with balanced or nitrogen-rich fertilizer. Support leaf stems if necessary in windy locations.
Peak foliage
2-3 monthsPlant reaches maximum height (3-6 feet) with fully developed leaves and established root/corm system expansion underground
Continue regular watering and feeding. Monitor for pests. Maintain humidity levels above 60%.
Corm maturation
2-4 monthsUnderground corms accumulate starch and increase in size; above-ground growth may slow as plant energy is directed downward
Reduce nitrogen fertilizer; increase potassium to support corm development. Maintain consistent moisture without overwatering.
Harvest-ready
Until harvest (8-12 months total)Leaves may yellow or decline naturally; corms reach full size and maturity with optimal starch content
Stop watering gradually to harden corms. Allow foliage to die back before harvesting. Handle corms carefully during extraction.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Increase humidity and mist leaves regularly; use insecticidal soap or neem oil for infestations
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Spray with strong water stream or neem oil; introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs
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Use yellow sticky traps; apply insecticidal soap or neem oil; improve air circulation
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Ensure excellent drainage; avoid overwatering; use well-draining soil mix; consider soil fungicides if present
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Remove infected leaves promptly; improve air circulation; avoid wetting foliage; apply copper-based fungicides
Uses
Staple starch crop and versatile ingredient
CulinaryThe corms are boiled, steamed, roasted, or fried and serve as a nutritious starch staple in tropical cuisines. The young leaves can also be cooked as greens when properly prepared. [source]
Traditional medicine applications
MedicinalUsed in Ayurvedic and traditional Asian medicine for digestive support, anti-inflammatory properties, and general wellness. The corms are believed to aid in reducing inflammation and supporting gut health. [source]
Rich source of dietary fiber and minerals
NutritionalCorms contain resistant starch, fiber, potassium, manganese, and vitamin E. They provide sustained energy release and support digestive health. [source]
Tropical landscaping and dramatic foliage
OrnamentalThe giant heart-shaped leaves and impressive stature make Colocasia Nicobar an excellent specimen plant for tropical gardens, water features, and landscape design. [source]
Natural air purification
HouseholdLarge aroids are known to improve indoor air quality by filtering airborne toxins, making them valuable for both aesthetic and environmental benefits in home environments. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Harvest corms 8-12 months after planting when leaves begin to yellow and die back naturally. Carefully dig around the plant to extract the main corm and any secondary cormels. Handle with gloves as some people experience skin irritation. Use a sharp spade and work carefully to avoid damaging the corm. Store in cool (55-65°F), dark, well-ventilated conditions; properly stored corms can last several months.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Colocasia Nicobar is named after the Nicobar Islands in the Bay of Bengal, where it originated. This cultivar is a giant variety capable of producing corms weighing up to 10 pounds.
- 🌱 The plant produces dramatic, rapid growth in warm conditions—sometimes putting out new leaves at a rate of one per week during peak season.
- 🌱 Unlike some taro varieties, Colocasia gigantea has a higher tolerance for partial shade and can be grown in understory conditions beneath coconut palms and other tropical trees.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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