SafePlants

Malanga: A Tropical Root Vegetable

Malanga is a starchy root vegetable popular in the tropics and South America. It's versatile in the kitchen and used in various dishes.

Common Names

• Malanga
• Yautia
• Cocoyam (in Florida, specifically referring to several species of Xanthosoma)
• Eddo
• Coco
• Tannia
• Sato-imo
• Japanese Potato

Considerations for Pets

• Malanga, also known as Caladium or Elephant's Ears (Colocasia esculenta) is listed as toxic to both dogs and cats.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• The text mentions Xanthosoma atrovirens, a South American plant of the arum family, as one definition of Malanga.
• The text mentions the scientific name Colocasia esculenta as being associated with Malanga.
• Family: Araceae (for Colocasia esculenta and presumably related to Xanthosoma atrovirens)

Distribution and Habitat

• Malanga is popular in the tropics and South America.
• In Florida, it is the most popular form of cocoyam.
• The plant is described as a tropical rainforest plant, but it can grow in full sun.

Morphological Characteristics

• Malanga roots look similar to yams and potatoes.
• The skin is described as a bit hairy, tough, brown, and shaggy with patchy thin skin.
• The flesh color varies and can be pink, reddish, beige, or yellowish. It can be lilac and speckled.
• Malanga roots vary in size, weighing between 1/2 to 2 pounds.
• Xanthosoma atrovirens has leaves up to 3 feet (90 cm) long and nearly 2 feet wide.

Culinary Uses

• Malanga root can be cooked and used like a potato, yam, or other root vegetable.
• It can be peeled, sliced, and fried as chips.
• It can be boiled and pureed for soup.
• Malanga is good baked, mashed, or roasted.

Quirky Facts

• According to one entry, in Cuban slang, "malanga" can refer to a female with rather large breasts.