How to Grow Taro Tahitian
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Taro Tahitian
Colocasia esculenta var. esculenta
vegetableTaro Tahitian is a tropical root vegetable with large, heart-shaped leaves and an edible underground corm that is creamy white with purple specks when cooked. It is a staple carbohydrate in Pacific Island cuisine and thrives in warm, humid conditions. The plant is valued for both its nutritious corms and ornamental foliage.
When should you plant Taro Tahitian in your zone?
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Example Taro Tahitian timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Taro Tahitian
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 Taro Tahitian
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Taro Tahitian dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 10-12; can be grown in zone 9b with protection
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Get my Taro Tahitian timeline →Growth Stages
Dormancy/Planting
2-4 weeksWhole or cut corm planted in warm soil; no visible growth yet
Ensure soil temperature is at least 70°F (21°C); keep soil warm and moist; may not sprout for 2-4 weeks
Emergence & Vegetative Growth
3-4 monthsShoots emerge and unfurl large heart-shaped leaves with prominent veining; plant grows rapidly in height and width
Maintain consistent moisture and humidity; apply balanced fertilizer monthly; mulch around base; ensure warm conditions (75-85°F ideal)
Leaf Expansion
2-3 monthsPlant develops multiple large leaves on long petioles; full canopy established; plant reaches 3-4 feet tall
Continue regular watering and monthly feeding with balanced or slightly lower-nitrogen fertilizer; watch for pest damage; maintain humidity above 60%
Corm Development & Maturation
2-4 monthsEnergy redirected to underground corm expansion; leaves may yellow slightly; corms enlarge beneath soil surface
Reduce nitrogen fertilization; maintain consistent moisture; cease fertilizing 4-6 weeks before intended harvest
Harvest Readiness
Harvest windowCorms reach full size (8-12 inches long); plant is 8-12 months old; leaves may begin natural senescence
Stop watering gradually to encourage dormancy; harvest when leaves show yellowing or after first frost threat in marginal zones
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Remove infected leaves immediately; improve air circulation; avoid overhead watering; fungicide application if severe; maintain dry foliage
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Spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap; strong water spray to dislodge; encourage natural predators; severe infestations may require systemic insecticide
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Increase humidity; spray with water; neem oil; insecticidal soap; ensure adequate moisture in soil
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Remove affected stems; handpick beetles; maintain plant vigor; severe cases may require insecticide
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Neem oil; insecticidal soap; row covers on young plants; remove weeds that harbor pests
Uses
Boiled, baked, or fried starch staple
CulinaryThe creamy white corm with purple flecks is a nutritious carbohydrate staple in Pacific Island cuisine. It can be boiled, baked, fried, or made into flour. [source]
Taro leaves as greens
CulinaryYoung leaves and stems (similar to spinach) are edible when cooked thoroughly to remove calcium oxalate crystals. Also known as callaloo in some regions. [source]
Traditional digestive and nutritional support
MedicinalRich in dietary fiber, resistant starch, and minerals; used in traditional medicine for digestive support and as a gluten-free staple grain alternative. [source]
Ornamental foliage plant
HouseholdThe large, striking heart-shaped leaves with prominent veining make taro an attractive tropical landscaping plant for borders and specimen plantings. [source]
Aquatic garden edging
WildlifeIn tropical wetland gardens or pond margins, taro provides food and shelter for aquatic wildlife while thriving in saturated conditions. [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, typically 10-12 months after emergence. Wait until leaves yellow or after the first frost threat in marginal zones. Carefully dig around the plant to avoid damaging corms; the main corm is harvested along with side cormels. Cut back foliage first. Corms store best in cool (50-60°F), humid conditions for 2-3 weeks. In tropical regions with continuous growing seasons, you can harvest side cormels while leaving the main corm in ground for continued production.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Taro Tahitian is named after Tahiti and is a staple crop throughout Polynesia; in Hawaii it was called 'kalo' and was sacred in ancient Hawaiian culture.
- 🌱 Taro corms contain calcium oxalate crystals that cause numbness and throat irritation if eaten raw; cooking completely neutralizes these compounds, making the corm safe and delicious.
- 🌱 A single mature taro plant can produce 1-2 pounds of main corm plus numerous side cormels, and in ideal tropical conditions can regrow after partial harvesting for multiple seasons of production.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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