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Products > Colocasia esculenta 'Fontanesii'   Colocasia esculenta 'Fontanesii' - Black Taro     [2nd Image] Habit and Cultural Information Category: Tropical Family: Araceae (Arums) Origin: Polynesia (Pacific Ocean) Evergreen: Yes Red/Purple Foliage: Yes Flower Color: White Bloomtime: Infrequent Height: 4-8 feet Width: 4-5 feet Exposure: Light Shade/Part Sun Irrigation (H2O Info): High Water Needs Winter Hardiness: 30-32° F May be Poisonous  (More Info): Yes Colocasia esculenta 'Fontanesii' (Black Taro) - A tender herbaceous perennial that holds large dark green heart-shaped leaves on dark purple (almost black) stalks. Grows 4-6 feet tall and about 5 feet wide in wet soils or shallow water. It can be planted in saturated soil to 12" deep in the water. Calla-like white flower blooms are rarely seen. Plant in light shade with protection from wind. Although tender to 30-32° F, it will often resprout from the base. This is a Taro relative - All parts of Taro are poisonous, so the roots and leaves must be cooked properly before being eaten. Even if eaten when only partially cooked, it will burn the throat.  This description is based on research and observations of this plant as it grows in our nursery, in our nursery garden and in other gardens that we visit. We also incorporate comments received and appreciate getting feedback of any kind from those who have any additional information about this plant, particularly if they disagree with what we have written or if they have additional cultural tips that would aid others in growing Colocasia esculenta 'Fontanesi'.     [MORE INFO]