Species

Colocasia esculentaTaro

27 other cultivars

perennial

Imperial Taro

Colocasia esculenta 'Illustris'

The Story

Plant Bio

Colocasia esculenta 'Illustris' is a lush, tropical perennial with large, heart-shaped, blackish-purple leaves marked with dramatic green veins.

This cultivar is distinguished by its striking contrasting leaf veins and its vigorous growth habit, making it an attractive focal point in water gardens or shaded landscape areas.

Uses & Benefits:

Creates a lush, tropical ambiance with large, dramatic leaves that add visual interest.

Helps stabilize soil in wet areas and prevents erosion.

Provides habitat for beneficial insects and small wildlife.

SpeciesColocasia esculentaTaro

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

48 inches

Width

36 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

8, 9, 10

Water

Consistently moist to wet soil

Humidity

Prefers high humidity

Lifespan

Perennial in suitable zones

Native To

Southeast Asia

Toxicity

Toxic if ingested, handle with care

Bloom period

Mid-summer – Late summer

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck corms into moist, well-draining soil in spring
Water regularly to keep soil consistently moist
Fertilize monthly during growing season for lush foliage
Mulch to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds
Divide clumps every 2-3 years in early spring
Protect from frost by mulching or moving indoors in colder zones

Pro Tip

Plant in rich, moist soil and keep consistently watered for best growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Keep soil moist and well-drained 🌱
Fertilize monthly during the growing season
Mulch to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature

Don't

Avoid letting soil dry out completely ❌
Do not expose to frost; lift tubers in cold zones
Avoid overwatering to prevent rot

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Lift Store
Pest Check
Plant

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Tropical garden borderLarge leafy focal pointWater's edge planting

Companion Plants

Ferns Hostas Caladium LobeliaCannas

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Imperial Taro questions

What zones can Imperial Taro grow in?

Imperial 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 Imperial Taro deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Imperial Taro, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Imperial Taro bloom?

Imperial Taro typically blooms in mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Imperial Taro need full sun?

Imperial Taro does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.