Blue Taro
Xanthosoma violaceum
Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
60 inches
Width
48 inches
Light
Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
8, 9
Water
Moist, well-drained soil
Humidity
High humidity preferred
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
South America
Toxicity
Toxic if ingested
The Story
Plant Bio
Xanthosoma violaceum is a tropical perennial plant distinguished by its large, arrow-shaped leaves with prominent purple veins and a lush, tropical habit. It produces spathes of white to pale purple flowers that emerge from underground corms. This species is highly valued for its striking foliage and adaptability to shaded environments, making it a popular ornamental plant in tropical and subtropical gardens.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck tubers in well-draining, moist soil in spring
- Mist cuttings or young plants regularly to maintain humidity
- Provide partial shade and consistent moisture for best growth
- Fertilize monthly during active growing season
- Mulch around base to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds
- Protect from frost by mulching or moving indoors in colder zones
Pro Tip
Use rich, moist soil and provide consistent moisture for lush growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
- Apply balanced fertilizer monthly during growing season
- Mulch to retain soil moisture and regulate temperature
- Provide filtered or partial shade
Don't
- Overwater causing root rot ❌
- Expose to direct, harsh sunlight ❌
- Allow soil to dry out completely ❌
- Neglect mulching and fertilizing
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Lift Store | ||||||||||||
| 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
Blue Taro questions
What zones can Blue Taro grow in?
Blue 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 Blue Taro deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Blue Taro, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Blue Taro bloom?
Blue Taro typically blooms in late summer through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Blue Taro need full sun?
Blue Taro does best in part shade.
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
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Grow Blue 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.
