General Culture: Click for monthly care information.
Best in part shade or filtered sun in moist, organically rich soils. Plant in locations protected from strong winds after last frost date. Rhizomes/tuberous roots may be started indoors in pots or containers. After last frost date, pots may be sunk to the rim in the garden and containers may be set out on the patio. Water and fertilize regularly. Before first fall frost, pots may be dug up and pots/containers should be brought inside where they can overwintered in a humid, cool (around 60-65 degrees F) location. Reduce watering in winter. Return to the garden in spring. Rhizomatous varieties are best left in pots year-round. Tuberous varieties may be planted directly in the garden in late spring. After first fall frost, dig and lift tubers, shake off loose soil, dry and store in cool, dry location for winter. May be grown as a houseplant.
Noteworthy Characteristics:
These are tropical plants of the Arum family that are treasured for their decorative (and in some cases enormous) leaves. Closely related to colocasia (taro), the plants of this genus feature heart to arrowhead-shaped leaves (12-36" long), each singly atop long and stout succulent stems. Infrequent calla-like flowers. Can produce growth to 6' tall or more in a single growing season. Leaves often have distinctive veining, marking and/or sheening.
Problems: Click for detailed list of pests and problems.
Watch for spider mites.
Uses:
Shady areas. Accents. Houseplants.
© Missouri Botanical
Garden, 2001-2010
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