Arrowleaf Elephant’s Ear

(Xanthosoma sagittifolium)

Arrowleaf Elephant’s Ear (Xanthosoma sagittifolium)

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Xanthosoma sagittifolium Native Range
Native Range
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Climate Requirements

• Precipitation 55" - 121"
• High Temp. 72°F - 94°F
• Low Temp. 51°F - 71°F

Summary

Xanthosoma sagittifolium, commonly known as Arrowleaf Elephant’s Ear, is an evergreen perennial herb native to tropical rainforests and riverbanks from Costa Rica to South Tropical America. It typically grows to a height and width of 2-4 feet (0.6-1.2 meters), featuring large, arrow-shaped leaves that can add a lush, tropical feel to any garden. The plant produces inconspicuous green and white flowers during the summer, which are often overshadowed by the striking foliage. The foliage itself can be quite ornamental, with some cultivars displaying variegated or purple-tinted leaves.

Arrowleaf Elephant’s Ear is valued for its bold foliage and is often used in cultivation for tropical-themed gardens, as a dramatic ground cover, or as an accent plant in mixed borders. It thrives in part shade to full shade, requiring well-draining soil rich in organic matter. It is also grown for its edible corm, which is a staple in many tropical regions and can be used similarly to potatoes. However, all parts of the plant contain calcium oxalate crystals, so they must be cooked properly to avoid irritation. In some areas, it can become invasive if conditions are ideal, so gardeners should manage its spread responsibly.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 2-4 feet
  • Width: 2-4 feet
  • Growth Rate: Slow
  • Flower Color: Green, White
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Part Shade, Full Shade
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Low Maintenance, Potted Plant

Natural Habitat

Tropical rainforests and riverbanks from Costa Rica to South Tropical America

Other Names

Common Names: Tania, Arrowleaf Elephant’s Ear, Malanga, American Taro, Blue Taro, Purple Taro, Purplestem Tannia, Purple Elephant’s Ear, New Cocoyam, Tania-Goldnarbe

Scientific Names: Xanthosoma sagittifolium, Xanthosoma atrovirens, Xanthosoma violaceum, Xanthosoma roseum, Xanthosoma mafaffa, Xanthosoma nigrum, Xanthosoma blandum, Xanthosoma xanthorrhizon, Xanthosoma atrovirens var. appendiculatum

GBIF Accepted Name: Xanthosoma sagittifolium (L.) Schott