Growing Guide: Taro

Plant Type:
Perennial Herb

Although cultivated as an annual, Taro is a perennial herb with a thick underground tuber. Taro may be deciduous (lose its foliage in the cold season) or evergreen depending on growing zone.

Harvest Season:
Fall

Taro is ready to harvest 7 months after planting.

Mature Size:
3-6 ft tall and wide 

Mature taro plants reach 3-6 feet tall and wide. The leaves themselves can grow up to 3 feet in size. At the base of the plant is one main tuber, which stores nutrients to last the plant through the winter.

Soil & Moisture:
Fertile, well-draining, moist, loamy and acidic soil. Taro prefers consistently moist soil; do not let completely dry out between watering. Under-watering will make the leaves wilt and curl up.  Taro is suitable for bogs and water gardens. However, over-watering, will make the plant prone to root rot. 

Light Requirements:
Part Shade, Shade, Full Sun

Self-Fertile:
Yes

Taro plants rarely flower or produce seeds and relies on the roots for propagation.

Growth Rate:
Fast 

Zone Hardiness:
Outdoors 9-11 with frost protection; Patio/Greenhouse 4+

Propagation:
Our Taro plants are propagated from division or tissue culture and are capable of harvest within 7 months (200 days).