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giant taro

Scientific Name: Alocasia macrorrhizos

Family: Araceae

Category: Monocot

Growth: Forb/herb

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

Giant Taro (Alocasia macrorrhiza)

The giant taro, scientifically known as Alocasia macrorrhiza, is a striking plant with significant cultural and economic importance in many regions.

Considerations for Pets

  • Mentioned as "ape" (though likely just a common name), which might suggest caution.
  • The plant's sap contains calcium oxalate, which can cause irritation.

Considerations for Children

  • In its raw state, the giant taro is poisonous to humans.
  • The plant's sap contains calcium oxalate, which can cause irritation.

Common Names

  • Giant Taro
  • Elephant Ear Taro
  • Upright Elephant Ear
  • Giant Ape

In Polynesian languages, names include Kape (Futunan, Niuean).

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Alocasia macrorrhiza (L.) G. Don.
  • Family: Araceae

Distribution and Habitat

  • Native to India and Sri Lanka.
  • Widely cultivated in the tropics.
  • Also found in Southeast Asia, the Malesian region, and Australia.
  • Polynesian explorers carried it eastward, including to Hawaii around 1500 years ago.

Morphological Characteristics

  • A giant plant, potentially reaching 4.5 meters in height.
  • Characterized by distinctive, very large erect or spreading leaves.
  • The "upright" distinction refers to the way the leaves are held compared to other "elephant ear" species.
  • Has a thick, swollen underground stem (corm) and an above-ground stem.

Economic Importance

  • Leaves and stems are eaten as a vegetable rich in vitamins after prolonged boiling.
  • The swollen underground stems are used for food and animal fodder when cooked.
  • Often grown in the Pacific Islands for its starchy upright stem, which is roasted, baked, or boiled.
  • The boiled leaves can potentially be a complete replacement for soybean meal in certain animal diets.

Interactions with Other Organisms

  • Subject to leaf spot disease caused by the fungus Mycosphaerella alocasiae.

Resources

  • RHS (Royal Horticultural Society) provides information on Alocasia macrorrhiza.
  • Dave's Garden offers tips and ideas for gardens.