Oatmeal Farm Network | Taro Varietals

Varietal Name	Description	Soil Texture	pH Range	Organic Matter	Salinity Level	Hardiness Zone	Humidity	Water (in/wk)	Primary Nutrient
Black Magic	Taro (Colocasia esculenta 'Black Magic') is an amazing plant species. With its large, black-purple foliage, this distinct taro variety adds an exotic look to any garden or indoor space. Plus, its deep, nutrient-rich soil and vibrant shade gives it a unique depth to its green leaves. From salads to stews, to baked goods and desserts, its edible root can provide flavor and nutrition to your favorite dishes. Furthermore, it is a hardy plant that can grow in various climates - perfect for both indoo	Loamy Soil	6.6 - 7.3	N/A	N/A	7A	N/A	N/A	N/A
Black Ripple	Taro (Colocasia esculenta 'Black Ripple') is an amazing plant species. Its black leaves are truly unique and make for a stunning addition to any garden. The rippled foliage of this plant adds texture to your landscape. Not only is it visually appealing, but it is also edible! Its tubers are popular in many cuisines and can be cooked, mashed, or roasted for a delicious meal. The plant itself is easy to care for and prefers moist, well-draining soils. Due to its low maintenance nature, it is perfe	Loamy Soil	6.6 - 7.3	N/A	N/A	7A	N/A	N/A	N/A
Blue Hawaii	Taro (Colocasia esculenta 'Blue Hawaii') is an amazingly productive tropical vegetable plant. It is native to Southeast Asia and is highly valued for its edible underground corm and leaves. With its stunning blue-green leaves and distinctive "ears" shaped like elephant ears, it is definitely an eye-catching plant. Its leaves, shoots, and stems provide excellent nutrition—they're high in fiber, vitamins A and C, iron, and calcium. Its corm has a nutty taste and a velvety texture. Taro requires mi	Loamy Soil	6.6 - 7.3	N/A	N/A	7A	N/A	N/A	N/A
Boga Taro	A smaller taro variety, common in Southeast Asia, used in soups and sweet desserts.	Sandy Soil	< 5.0	Very Low (< 1%)	4 - 8	1A	High	N/A	Nitrogen (N)
Bun Long Taro	A Chinese variety of taro known for its smaller size and creamy texture, used in soups and steamed dishes.	Sandy Soil	< 5.0	Very Low (< 1%)	4 - 8	1A	High	N/A	Nitrogen (N)
Bun Taro	A taro variety commonly grown in Southeast Asia, known for its firm texture and use in curries and stir-fries.	Sandy Soil	< 5.0	Very Low (< 1%)	4 - 8	1A	High	N/A	Nitrogen (N)
Bun-long	A Hawaiian variety of Taro prized for its excellent flavor and smooth, white flesh. It produces a main corm and many smaller cormels.	Sandy Soil	< 5.0	Very Low (< 1%)	4 - 8	1A	High	N/A	Nitrogen (N)
Chinese Pink Taro	A variety with a pinkish hue to its corm, used in Chinese cuisine for its slightly sweet taste and smooth texture.	Sandy Soil	< 5.0	Very Low (< 1%)	4 - 8	1A	High	N/A	Nitrogen (N)
Dasheen	A variety of Taro known for its large, starchy corms. It is a staple food in many tropical regions, prized for its nutty flavor.	Sandy Soil	< 5.0	Very Low (< 1%)	4 - 8	1A	High	N/A	Nitrogen (N)
Dasheen Taro	A common taro variety with large, starchy corms used in Caribbean and Asian cuisine, often boiled or mashed.	Sandy Soil	< 5.0	Very Low (< 1%)	4 - 8	1A	High	N/A	Nitrogen (N)
Eddoe	A smaller, more bulbous variety of Taro with a stronger, sharper flavor than dasheen. It is highly valued for its texture and taste.	Sandy Soil	< 5.0	Very Low (< 1%)	4 - 8	1A	High	N/A	Nitrogen (N)
Eddoe Taro	A smaller taro variety with a nutty flavor, popular in Caribbean, South American, and Indian cuisine.	Sandy Soil	< 5.0	Very Low (< 1%)	4 - 8	1A	High	N/A	Nitrogen (N)
Elena	The Taro (Colocasia esculenta 'Elena') is an amazing tropical plant. With its dark green shiny leaves and unique bumpy stems, it is sure to bring a tropical vibe to any home. The thick foliage can tolerate a wide range of temperatures and loves humidity, meaning it's easy to grow indoors or out. It's a great plant for adding texture to a room, and can grow to over 3 feet tall. Plus it's edible – its flavorful Mayan-originated roots are used in cuisines around the world. Whether its grown for its	Loamy Soil	6.6 - 7.3	N/A	N/A	7A	N/A	N/A	N/A
Hawaiian Punch	Taro (Colocasia esculenta 'Hawaiian Punch') is an amazing plant. It is an ornamental variety of taro, known for its amazing foliage of green and purple, providing a contrast of colors. It has large heart-shaped leaves that can reach up to 90cm in length and has a remarkable texture, perfect for water gardens or large planters. The heat resistant taro is vigorous and fast growing. It can be grown inshade or partial sun and will thrive in moist soils, making it ideal for use as a pond or bogplant.	Loamy Soil	6.6 - 7.3	N/A	N/A	7A	N/A	N/A	N/A
Japanese Taro (Satoimo)	A smaller, round taro variety with a sticky texture when cooked, commonly used in Japanese stews and side dishes.	Sandy Soil	< 5.0	Very Low (< 1%)	4 - 8	1A	High	N/A	Nitrogen (N)
Kahalu’u Taro	A green-leafed Hawaiian variety, often grown in wetland conditions and prized for its light, starchy corms.	Sandy Soil	< 5.0	Very Low (< 1%)	4 - 8	1A	High	N/A	Nitrogen (N)
Kalo Pa‘akai Taro	A Hawaiian variety traditionally used in making salted poi, valued for its salt-tolerant properties and distinct taste.	Sandy Soil	< 5.0	Very Low (< 1%)	4 - 8	1A	High	N/A	Nitrogen (N)
Kona Coffee	Taro (Colocasia esculenta 'Kona Coffee') is an amazing species of plant that is native to India and Southeast Asia. It boasts a rich and flavorful taste, making it a favorite among foodies and culinary enthusiasts. It produces large, heart-shaped leaves and round tubers with creamy flesh and a distinct nutty aroma. Its 'Kona coffee' variety gives off an exquisite flavor of light-roasted coffee — a tantalizing and unique combination. Taro is also easily cultivated, making it one of the more susta	Loamy Soil	6.6 - 7.3	N/A	N/A	7A	N/A	N/A	N/A
Lauloa Taro	An ancient Hawaiian variety known for its sweet and starchy corms, used to make light purple poi.	Sandy Soil	< 5.0	Very Low (< 1%)	4 - 8	1A	High	N/A	Nitrogen (N)
Lehua Maoli Taro	A Hawaiian variety of taro used traditionally in making poi, known for its deep purple flesh and slightly sweet flavor.	Sandy Soil	< 5.0	Very Low (< 1%)	4 - 8	1A	High	N/A	Nitrogen (N)
Mojito	Taro (Colocasia esculenta 'Mojito') is a unique variety of taro root with a sweet, nutty flavor. Its bright green, heart-shaped leaves have a beautiful puckered texture that add an interesting visual element to any plate. The stems are edible, allowing for a range of culinary uses. This species is very hardy and can withstand temperatures as low as 14 degrees Fahrenheit, making it ideal for growing in temperate regions. It is also drought tolerant, and an excellent choice for gardeners looking f	Loamy Soil	6.6 - 7.3	N/A	N/A	7A	N/A	N/A	N/A
Niuean Taro	A Pacific Island variety known for its deep purple corm and strong, starchy flavor, used in stews and baked dishes.	Sandy Soil	< 5.0	Very Low (< 1%)	4 - 8	1A	High	N/A	Nitrogen (N)
Peewee Taro	A smaller taro variety with a mild flavor, often used in soups and stews in Southeast Asia.	Sandy Soil	< 5.0	Very Low (< 1%)	4 - 8	1A	High	N/A	Nitrogen (N)
Piko Kea Taro	A white-stemmed taro variety from Hawaii, known for its light-colored corms and use in making poi.	Sandy Soil	< 5.0	Very Low (< 1%)	4 - 8	1A	High	N/A	Nitrogen (N)
Piko Ula Taro	A red-stemmed taro variety from Hawaii, favored for its beautiful color and used in traditional dishes.	Sandy Soil	< 5.0	Very Low (< 1%)	4 - 8	1A	High	N/A	Nitrogen (N)
Pinanganak Taro	A Southeast Asian variety known for its subtle flavor and versatility in sweet or savory dishes.	Sandy Soil	< 5.0	Very Low (< 1%)	4 - 8	1A	High	N/A	Nitrogen (N)
Pueo Taro	A unique taro variety from Hawaii with yellowish corms, used traditionally in ceremonial and festive dishes.	Sandy Soil	< 5.0	Very Low (< 1%)	4 - 8	1A	High	N/A	Nitrogen (N)
Red Taro	A rare variety with reddish corms, often used for special dishes in Pacific Island cultures.	Sandy Soil	< 5.0	Very Low (< 1%)	4 - 8	1A	High	N/A	Nitrogen (N)
Royal Hawaiian Aloha	Taro, also known as Colocasia esculenta 'Royal Hawaiian Aloha', is a tropical plant with unique features. Its lacy-edged leaves have a distinctively scalloped shape, while its thick stalks provide a sturdy base. Its lush foliage adds texture and beauty to a garden. Its ability to thrive in areas of high humidity and heavy rainfall make it an ideal choice for rainforest environments. It's also salt tolerant, providing a resilient outdoor plant for coastal areas. Its nutritious tubers are packed w	Loamy Soil	6.6 - 7.3	N/A	N/A	7A	N/A	N/A	N/A
Samoan Taro	A variety grown in the Pacific Islands, used in traditional dishes such as palusami, with a mild flavor and creamy texture.	Sandy Soil	< 5.0	Very Low (< 1%)	4 - 8	1A	High	N/A	Nitrogen (N)
Thapthim Taro	A Thai variety of taro known for its purple and white speckled flesh, used in both savory and sweet dishes.	Sandy Soil	< 5.0	Very Low (< 1%)	4 - 8	1A	High	N/A	Nitrogen (N)
Tropical Storm	Taro (Colocasia esculenta 'Tropical Storm') is an amazing plant species to have in your garden. It is fast-growing, with large ruffled leaves of deep green and a hint of grey running down the edges. Its thick, heart-shaped leaves bring a tropical feel to your garden. This plant is also drought-tolerant and can tolerate shade, making it an easy choice for many gardens. Its tropical storm coloration makes it a great addition to a shady corner, providing height, texture, and interest with its uniqu	Loamy Soil	6.6 - 7.3	N/A	N/A	7A	N/A	N/A	N/A
Waihee Purple Taro	A Hawaiian taro variety with a striking purple color, used in traditional dishes and ceremonies.	Sandy Soil	< 5.0	Very Low (< 1%)	4 - 8	1A	High	N/A	Nitrogen (N)
White Taro	A common variety with white flesh, used in a variety of dishes including steamed, boiled, and mashed taro preparations.	Sandy Soil	< 5.0	Very Low (< 1%)	4 - 8	1A	High	N/A	Nitrogen (N)
Yellow Taro	A variety with yellow flesh, commonly used in Polynesian cuisine, with a slightly sweet and nutty flavor.	Sandy Soil	< 5.0	Very Low (< 1%)	4 - 8	1A	High	N/A	Nitrogen (N)