Jack's Giant Taro
Colocasia esculenta 'Jacks Giant'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Bulb Corm Tuber
Height
84 inches
Width
60 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
8, 9
Water
Prefers consistently moist to wet soil
Humidity
High humidity preferred
Lifespan
Perennial in zones 8-11
Native To
Southeast Asia
Toxicity
All parts are toxic if ingested raw; contains calcium oxalate crystals.
The Story
Plant Bio
Large, dramatic leaves with a tropical appearance; suitable for aquatic or moist garden settings. This cultivar is known for its oversized leaves that can reach up to 3 feet in width, making it a striking focal point in the garden.
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck corms into well-draining, rich soil in early spring.
- Water consistently to keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Mist foliage regularly during dry spells for lush growth.
- Fertilize monthly with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer.
- Prune dead or yellowing leaves to promote healthy growth.
- Divide clumps every 2-3 years in early spring for propagation.
Pro Tip
Plant corms at a depth twice their size for optimal growth and stability.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Keep soil consistently moist 🌱
- Provide partial shade in hot climates
- Apply organic mulch to retain moisture
Don't
- Avoid waterlogging to prevent rot ❌
- Don’t expose corms to frost; lift and store in winter
- Refrain from over-fertilizing to prevent leaf burn
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Lift Store | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Plant |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Jack's Giant Taro questions
What zones can Jack's Giant Taro grow in?
Jack's Giant Taro is hardy in USDA Zones 8–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Jack's Giant Taro deer resistant?
Yes — Jack's Giant Taro is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Jack's Giant Taro bloom?
Jack's Giant Taro typically blooms in summer to early fall; infrequent through early fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Jack's Giant Taro need full sun?
Jack's Giant Taro does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
More Colocasia to compare
Black Runner Taro
Colocasia esculenta 'Black Runner'
Black Beauty Taro
Colocasia esculenta 'Black Beauty'
Taro
Colocasia esculenta
Elephant Ear
Colocasia esculenta 'Chicago Harlequin'
Black Magic Taro
Colocasia esculenta 'Black Magic'
Pink China Elephant Ear
Colocasia esculenta 'Pink China'
Keep exploring
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Hardy in your zone?
Grow Jack's Giant Taro with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
