Guinea Arrowroot (Calathea allouia)
The rare Amazonian “sweet corn root” is a well-kept indigenous breakfast secret. With a similar starch to a potato, the low-maintenance Guinea Arrowroot is commonly boiled and salted, keeping its signature crisp throughout cooking.
It’s green maize-like flavor keeps its indigenous growers coming back for more as they patiently await the slow growing, worthwhile crop. The large leaves are often used to wrap food or make baby clothing (as their fibers are incredibly durable), while the young flower spikes can be eaten if heated. In South America, they use the leaves’ dye for medicinal purposes such as diuretics and treatment for cystitis.
The shape of the Guinea Arrowroot differs from traditional Arrowroot and resembles more of an ovoid or cylindrical shape.
Plant Type:
Perennial Deciduous Herb
Harvest Season:
After 10-12 months of humid weather, when the leaves begin to fall and the root is thick with starch
Mature Size:
Up to 5’ tall
Soil & Moisture:
Likes consistently moist, well-drained soil and high humidity conditions. Arrowroot isn't super picky about soil conditions as long as it is well-draining and never totally dries out. Avoid dense clays or super sandy soil to prevent Arrowroots growth from stunting.
Light Requirements:
Full Sun, Part Shade
Will tolerate higher light in lower temperatures
Self-Fertile:
Yes
Growth Rate:
Slow
Propagation:
Our Arrowroot plants are grown by root division and will be ready to harvest within 1-2 growing seasons.
Zone Hardiness:
Outdoors 9-12 with frost protection; Patio/Greenhouse 4+
