Giant Taro

Fruit

This arum grows the world's largest undivided leaf, up to 3 metres in length and 2 metres wide, though in cultivation, 1.5 metres is more common. The stems can grow to 2m and up to 15cm thick. This is truely a plant of gigantic proportions, that imparts a sub-tropical feel to any garden. In the Summer, it produces numerous cream coloured flowers, which are then followed by green "fruits" that burst open to reveal bright red berries.

The leaves are tender and will be burnt by the slightest frost. However, they soon regenerate from the stem. With age, the stem will bend towards the ground and will soon put down roots.

The rhizome and leaves of the giant taro are used by some Pacific Islanders as food, but requires extensive cooking to destroy the toxins they contain. The unprocessed plant contains acrid toxins that can cause painful and potentially dangerous reactions if eaten. Caution is advised if you are growing this plant for food.

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See also:  Ornamentals

Flower Flower Fruit Fruit