How to Grow Dasheen
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Dasheen
Colocasia esculenta
vegetableDasheen, also known as taro, is a tropical root vegetable grown primarily for its starchy corms (underground tubers) and nutrient-dense leaves. Native to Southeast Asia, it has large, heart-shaped leaves and produces underground corms that can weigh 1-2 pounds when mature. The plant is a staple carbohydrate source in many Pacific, African, and Caribbean cuisines.
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Example Dasheen timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Dasheen
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 Dasheen
Around Oct 14≈ 180 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Dasheen dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 9b-12; can be grown as an annual in zone 8 with protection. Prefers warm, humid tropical and subtropical climates.
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Get my Dasheen timeline →Growth Stages
Sprouting
2-4 weeksCorms begin to sprout, developing initial shoots and root system. Small leaves emerge above soil.
Maintain warm soil temperature (70-85°F). Ensure consistent moisture. Mulch to regulate soil temperature and retain water.
Vegetative Growth
6-12 weeksPlant develops multiple large, heart-shaped leaves on long petioles (leaf stems). Leaf canopy expands significantly. Underground corm begins developing.
Fertilize every 4-6 weeks with balanced or nitrogen-rich fertilizer. Maintain consistent moisture and humidity. Remove any dead or diseased leaves.
Corm Development
8-16 weeksUnderground corms expand and develop. Plant continues producing new leaves. Corms fill out and accumulate starch.
Reduce nitrogen fertilizer; increase potassium and phosphorus. Maintain steady moisture without waterlogging. Mulch heavily around base to promote corm development.
Maturation
4-8 weeksCorms reach full size. Leaf production slows. Plant may show signs of flower emergence in some varieties (though flowers are rarely ornamental).
Continue regular watering. Reduce fertilizer frequency. Monitor for pests and diseases as plant matures.
Harvest Readiness
At harvestCorms are firm and fully developed, typically 8-12 inches long and 4-6 inches in diameter. Leaves may yellow slightly.
Stop fertilizing 2-3 weeks before harvest. Reduce watering slightly to harden corms. Carefully dig to avoid damaging corms.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Hand-pick beetles and eggs. Use neem oil spray. Remove affected leaves. Encourage natural predators.
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and
(fungal)
Improve air circulation by spacing plants adequately. Remove infected leaves. Apply fungicide if severe. Avoid overhead watering.
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and
(fungal/bacterial)
Ensure well-draining soil. Avoid waterlogging. Use disease-resistant varieties. Sanitize tools. Remove affected plants.
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Spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Use yellow sticky traps. Improve air circulation.
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Increase humidity with regular misting. Spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap. Remove heavily infested leaves.
Uses
Starchy tuber staple
CulinaryThe corms are boiled, baked, fried, or mashed as a primary starch source. They have a slightly nutty flavor and creamy texture when cooked, making them a versatile carbohydrate replacement for potatoes or cassava. [source]
Leafy greens
CulinaryYoung dasheen leaves (dasheen leaves or callaloo) are cooked as nutritious greens similar to spinach or collards, often used in Caribbean and Pacific dishes. The leaves contain more protein than the corms. [source]
Nutritional and digestive support
MedicinalDasheen corms are rich in resistant starch, dietary fiber, and minerals including potassium, magnesium, and manganese. Traditionally used to support digestive health and provide sustained energy. [source]
Gluten-free flour production
HouseholdCorms can be dried and ground into flour for gluten-free baking and cooking, providing an alternative carbohydrate source for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. [source]
Wetland habitat and wildlife forage
WildlifeDasheen plants create dense foliage that provides wildlife habitat in tropical regions. The large leaves offer shade and shelter for beneficial insects and small animals. [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: Harvest 6-9 months after planting when leaves begin to yellow or die back. Carefully dig around plant to avoid damaging corms. Harvest in dry weather and allow corms to dry for 1-2 weeks before storage. Leaves (as 'dasheen leaves' or 'callaloo'): Harvest outer leaves continuously once plant is established, beginning 2-3 months after planting. Pick tender young leaves in the morning. Regular harvesting encourages more leaf production.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Dasheen is one of the oldest cultivated plants, with evidence of taro cultivation dating back at least 10,000 years in Southeast Asia. It is a staple food for over 400 million people worldwide.
- 🌱 The leaves contain calcium oxalate crystals that cause a numbing sensation if eaten raw, but cooking breaks down these compounds completely, making the cooked leaves safe and nutritious.
- 🌱 In Hawaiian culture, taro (dasheen) is known as 'kalo' and holds significant spiritual and cultural importance. It is said to be related to the Hawaiian god Kane and represents life and sustenance.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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