taro (Colocasia esculenta 'Kona Coffee') plant — close-up photo
Moderate to grow

taro

Colocasia esculenta 'Kona Coffee'

Overview

Taro (Colocasia esculenta 'Kona Coffee') is an amazing species of plant that is native to India and Southeast Asia. It boasts a rich and flavorful taste, making it a favorite among foodies and culinary enthusiasts. It produces large, heart-shaped leaves and round tubers with creamy flesh and a distinct nutty aroma. Its 'Kona coffee' variety gives off an exquisite flavor of light-roasted coffee — a tantalizing and unique combination. Taro is also easily cultivated, making it one of the more sustainable options for home gardens. Its colorful stems, dark hues, and delicious taste make it an amazing addition to any backyard. As a bonus, its nutritious roots also make for a tasty and satisfying meal.

Care Guide

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Watering

Taro (Colocasia esculenta 'Kona Coffee') plant should be watered every 5-7 days. Depending on the season and type of soil, the amount of water varies. During the spring and summer, when the plant is actively growing, it should be watered deeply and allow the soil to dry out between waterings. In the fall and winter, it should be watered more sparingly to prevent the roots from staying wet for too long. In sandy soil, taro will need more frequent watering than in heavier soils. If the soil feels dry to 2 inches below the surface, it is time to water. Generally, taro plants should receive enough water that it is soaking into the root zone, but not enough that the soil is soggy or waterlogged.

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Light

Taro (Colocasia esculenta 'Kona Coffee') plants require 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day in order to perform optimally. These plants are most comfortable in temperatures between 63-85°F and can be easily damaged by temperatures that are too hot or too cold. In general, the best time of day for the plant to receive sunlight is during the morning and afternoon hours, avoiding any strong sunlight during the middle of the day. When growing a Taro plant indoors, it would be beneficial to place the plant close to a window where there is direct access to sunlight.

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Soil

Acidic, Bog, Humus rich

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Temperature

Hardiness zone 8–10.

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Pruning

Taro (Colocasia esculenta 'Kona Coffee') should be pruned in late summer when the plant is actively growing. As growth begins to slow for the season, trim away the old foliage, removing any dead or dying plant material. Remove any spent flowers or seed pods as well. Prune the plant to the desired shape and size, taking care to remove only the excess foliage and not removing more than about 1 third of the total amount of foliage at a time. Pruning will help promote healthy, even growth for the next season.

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Propagation

Division

Diseases & Pests

Common pests: Mites, Root rot, Virus, Pest resistant, Disease resistant .

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