Contents
Description
Xanthosoma Robustum, also known as Giant Elephant Ear or Tannia, is a tropical plant that belongs to the Araceae family. It is native to South America and can be found in countries such as Brazil, Colombia, Peru, and Venezuela. The plant is widely cultivated for its large, heart-shaped leaves and edible tubers.The leaves of Xanthosoma Robustum can grow up to 3 feet long and 2 feet wide. They are dark green in color with prominent veins and a glossy finish. The plant produces a single, long stem that can reach up to 6 feet in height. The stem is green and smooth, and it produces a spathe and spadix flower. The spathe is a large, white, and waxy modified leaf that protects the spadix, which is a spike-like structure that contains the plant’s flowers.The tubers of Xanthosoma Robustum are edible and are a popular ingredient in traditional dishes in South America. They are starchy and have a nutty, earthy flavor.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Alismatales |
| Family | Araceae |
| Genus | Xanthosoma |
| Species | Xanthosoma Robustum |
Appearance
Xanthosoma Robustum is a large, tropical plant with heart-shaped leaves and a single stem that can reach up to 6 feet in height. The leaves are dark green in color, glossy, and have prominent veins. They can grow up to 3 feet long and 2 feet wide. The plant produces a spathe and spadix flower, with the spathe being a large, white, and waxy modified leaf that protects the spadix.
Care Guide
To care for Xanthosoma Robustum, it is important to provide it with the proper water, fertilization, soil, sunlight, and hardiness zones.Water: The plant prefers moist but well-drained soil. It should be watered regularly, especially during the growing season, but avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.Fertilization: Xanthosoma Robustum should be fertilized with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.Soil: The plant prefers rich, well-draining soil. It can be grown in containers or in the ground.Sunlight: Xanthosoma Robustum prefers partial shade to full sun. It can tolerate some direct sunlight, but too much can burn the leaves.Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Xanthosoma Robustum can be susceptible to a few common pests and diseases, including:- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause damage to the leaves of the plant, causing them to turn yellow and fall off. They can be controlled with a soapy water spray or insecticidal soap.- Mealybugs: These white, cottony pests can also cause damage to the leaves of the plant. They can be controlled with neem oil or insecticidal soap.- Leaf spot: This fungal disease can cause lesions on the leaves of the plant, leading to yellowing and eventual death of the leaves. It can be prevented by avoiding overhead watering and keeping the plant well-ventilated.
Habitat
Xanthosoma Robustum is native to South America and can be found in countries such as Brazil, Colombia, Peru, and Venezuela. It is a tropical plant that prefers warm temperatures and high humidity. It can be grown in containers or in the ground and is often used as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Xanthosoma Robustum poisonous?
A: No, Xanthosoma Robustum is not poisonous. However, some people may experience skin irritation if they come into contact with the sap of the plant.
Q: How often should I water Xanthosoma Robustum?
A: Xanthosoma Robustum prefers moist but well-drained soil. It should be watered regularly, especially during the growing season, but avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Q: Can I grow Xanthosoma Robustum indoors?
A: Yes, Xanthosoma Robustum can be grown indoors as long as it is provided with bright, indirect sunlight and the proper growing conditions.
Q: How do I propagate Xanthosoma Robustum?
A: Xanthosoma Robustum can be propagated by dividing the tubers in the spring or by taking stem cuttings.
Related Plants
Other plants in the Xanthosoma genus include:- Xanthosoma Atrovirens- Xanthosoma Caracu- Xanthosoma Lindenii- Xanthosoma Mafaffa- Xanthosoma Sagittifolium
References
– “Xanthosoma Robustum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 11, 2021. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a394.- “Giant Elephant Ear (Xanthosoma Robustum).” Gardening Know How. Accessed August 11, 2021. https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/foliage/giant-elephant-ear/xanthosoma-robustum.htm.- “Tannia (Xanthosoma Sagittifolium).” Purdue University Center for New Crops & Plant Products. Accessed August 11, 2021. https://hort.purdue.edu/newcrop/Crops/Tannia.html.
