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Colocasia esculenta

How to Grow Taro

This starchy corm or root vegetable is a dietary staple of many Asian and Pacific Island nations. Known for its distinctive flavour and versatility, Taro, also affectionately known as Elephant Ears, can be used in various culinary applications, from savoury dishes to desserts. The young leaves can also be cooked and eaten, but make sure it's the edible Taro variety.

In addition to its culinary uses, Taro with its long, green, heart-shaped leaves can also serve as an attractive ornamental plant, making it a dual-purpose choice for gardeners.

Climate Zone, When and Where to Grow

Climate zone: Taro grows well across most of Australia.

When to grow: In tropical climates, Taro can be planted at anytime of the year. In warm temperate, cool and cold climates, plant Taro in spring, once the danger of frost has passed.

Where to grow: Grow Taro in part shade in a well-drained soil or large trough filled with quality potting mix.

Harvesting

Growing time: Taro will be ready to harvest 9-12 months after planting.

When to harvest: Harvest Taro when the leaves yellow and die back.

How to harvest : Use a fork to dig and lift the corms out of the ground. If you live in a frosty area, ensure corms are harvested before the first frost as cold temperatures can affect their quality. Cook the tubers well before consuming.

Part shade, avoid direct sunlight, frost-free

Regular watering

Rich, water holding soil with plenty of organic matter

Suitable for all climatic zones

9-12 months

Any time of the year in frost free area, spring in temperate area

How to Grow Taro in a Garden

Close up of lush taro leaves growing in the garden

Step 1 - Choose a Location

Choose a spot in partial shade and well-drained soil. Some varieties can tolerate full sun; check plants labels when purchasing.

Step 2 - Improve the Soil & Planting

Improving the soil before planting will see Taro off to a good start. Mix two handfuls of Yates Dynamic Lifter Soil Improver & Plant Fertiliser into each square metre of soil. Plant out the root pieces at 80 cm intervals, 5 cm deep and lightly cover with soil. Water in well and mulch with an organic mulch, like Yates Dynamic Lifter 4-in-1 Mulch; this will help keep the soil moist.

Step 3 - Early Taro Care

Water regularly throughout the growing season to keep the soil moist. Feed every 6-8 weeks with Yates Dynamic Lifter Plant Food Pellets Tomatoes, Vegies & Herbs.

Yates 50L Dynamic Lifter 4 in 1 Mulch

Available in-store only

Yates 3kg Dynamic Lifter Plant Food Pellets Tomatoes, Vegies & Herbs

Available in-store only

Step 4 - Harvesting Taro

Taro corms are typically ready for harvest 9-12 months after planting. Once the leaves start to yellow and die back, use a garden fork to lift the corms. Taro don't store well longer than a month, so it's best to harvest as required. If required, clean and store Taro in a cool, dry place.

How to Grow Taro in a Pot

Step 1 - Choose a Pot & Location

Choose a pot at least 500 mm wide and deep and position in a spot with part-shade. Some varieties can tolerate full sun; check plants labels when purchasing.

Step 2 - Use a Quality Potting Mix

Fill pot with quality potting mix, such as Yates Potting Mix with Dynamic Lifter. Plant out one root piece per pot, 5 cm deep and lightly cover. Water in well and mulch with an organic mulch, like Yates Dynamic Lifter 4-in-1 Mulch; this will help keep the soil moist.

Step 3 - Early Taro Care

Water regularly throughout the growing season to keep the soil moist. Feed every 6-8 weeks with Yates Dynamic Lifter Plant Food Pellets Tomatoes, Vegies & Herbs.

Step 4 - Harvesting Taro

Taro corms whole and cut in half on a wooden chopping board

Taro Growing Tips

Can you eat Taro raw?

No. Raw Taro and its leaves contain calcium oxalate, which can irritate the skin, mouth and stomach. Wear gloves when harvesting and handling, and peel the rough brown skin before cooking. You can cook Taro by boiling, baking, roasting, steaming, frying or sauteing. Make sure cook taro well before eating to avoid stomach aches/

Can I Grow Taro in Full Sun?

Taro thrives in part shade, however, there are varieties that will grow in full sun. Check the label when purchasing to confirm the best position for your plant.

Can I Plant Taro in a Bog Garden?

Yes, you can plant Taro in a bog garden. Taro is a tropical plant that thrives in wet, humid conditions, making it well-suited for bog gardens. If you’re planting Taro in a bog garden, ensure that it has access to good water levels throughout the growing season. Regular monitoring will help prevent the roots from drying out.