Thai White Stem Taro - Edible Keladi Plant

Thai Keladi or White Stem Taro (Colocasia esculenta)

The Keladi, or Thai Taro, is a captivating tropical marvel known for its grand heart-shaped leaves that can range from deep green to mesmerising bluish hues. Native to Southeast Asia, this plant isn’t just a feast for the eyes; it also hides starchy, edible tubers beneath the soil, which are treasured in various traditional dishes. But tread with caution! Raw taro parts contain toxins that demand thorough cooking before indulgence. Whether for its ornamental allure or culinary charm, the Keladi stands as a testament to nature’s versatility and abundance.

Note that this specific Taro plant is grown for its stems which makes popular Asian dish like curry, stir fry and soup. To cook it you need to first cube the stems, remove the thinner or outer skin of Taro stems and soak in water with a bit of salt overnight before boiling. Once this process is done then only it can be cooked again in your favourite dish. 

Keladi or Thai Taro is a versatile plant that can be grown for its ornamental value, as well as for its edible stems. With the right care, they can be a wonderful addition to gardens and landscapes in tropical and subtropical regions.

*Raw taro parts contain calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause severe irritation to the mouth and throat. Always cook taro stems thoroughly before tasting. 

Plant Care 

• Soil: Taro thrives in fertile, well-drained soil but can also grow in slightly waterlogged conditions, which mimics its natural habitat in wetlands. It prefers a pH between 5.5 and 7.0.
• Watering: Taro plants require a lot of water, and the soil should be kept consistently moist. In very hot climates or during dry spells, frequent watering is necessary to maintain the wet soil conditions that taro needs to thrive.
• Temperature: Taro is a tropical plant and does best in warm, humid conditions, ideally between 21°C and 35°C. It is not frost-tolerant and will require protection or moving indoors in regions that experience cold temperatures.
• Light: Prefers partial shade but can tolerate full sun if enough water is provided to keep the soil and environment humid.
• Fertilising: Use a balanced NPK fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season to support its rapid growth. Taro is a heavy feeder and may also benefit from additional applications of nitrogen-rich fertilizers to promote lush leaf development.
• Pruning: Generally, taro does not require pruning. Remove dead or yellowing leaves to maintain plant health and aesthetics.
• Mulching: Apply a thick layer of organic mulch around the plants to help retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and provide nutrients as it breaks down. This is particularly helpful in hot, dry climates.
• Pest Control: Monitor for pests such as aphids, spider mites, and taro beetles, which can damage the leaves and corms. Use appropriate organic or chemical treatments as necessary. Also, be vigilant about fungal diseases, which can thrive in the moist conditions that taro loves.
• Flowering and Fruiting: Taro rarely flowers when grown outside its native habitat. The plant is primarily cultivated for its edible corms and leaves rather than for its flowers.
• Potting: Taro can be grown in large containers, but ensure they are deep enough to accommodate the corm and have good drainage. Containers are beneficial for controlling growth and moving the plant if needed.
• Feeding Regime: Due to its rapid growth, additional feeding with a liquid fertilizer can be beneficial during peak growing periods. Ensure that nutrients are balanced to avoid excessive nitrogen, which can lead to lush foliage at the expense of corm development.