How to Grow and Care for Chinese Taro Plant

The Chinese Taro (Alocasia cucullata), also known as Buddha’s Hand, is a popular indoor ornamental. It is recognized for its glossy, heart-shaped green leaves on upright stems, creating a lush appearance. Native to tropical forests of Asia, its manageable size and distinct foliage make it a favored choice for houseplant collections.

Toxicity and Edibility Clarification

The Chinese Taro (Alocasia cucullata) should not be confused with the edible taro root (Colocasia esculenta). The Chinese Taro is toxic to humans and pets if ingested because it contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals. These needle-like crystals cause significant irritation to sensitive tissues. If chewed or swallowed, symptoms include intense pain and swelling of the mouth, lips, and tongue, drooling, and vomiting. Place the plant out of reach of children and pets, as its sap can also cause skin irritation.

Chinese Taro Plant Care

Light

This plant thrives in bright, indirect sunlight. An ideal location is near a window with a sheer curtain, which mimics the filtered light of its native habitat. Direct sun exposure should be avoided, as it can scorch the leaves. Insufficient light causes slow, ‘leggy’ growth as the plant stretches towards a light source. Rotate the pot regularly so all sides receive adequate light.

Soil

This plant requires a well-draining, airy potting medium to prevent root rot. The mix should retain some moisture without becoming waterlogged. Combine peat-free houseplant compost with materials that improve aeration, such as perlite or pine bark. A pot with drainage holes is required to allow surplus water to escape.

Water

Keep the soil evenly moist but not saturated. Water thoroughly when the top one to two inches of soil feel dry. When you water, continue until liquid flows from the pot’s drainage holes. After watering, discard any excess water that collects in the saucer. Maintaining a steady watering schedule based on soil moisture prevents plant stress.

Temperature and Humidity

The Chinese Taro prefers warm, humid conditions, with temperatures from 64°F to 77°F (18°C to 25°C). Protect the plant from sudden temperature fluctuations and cold drafts. High humidity is beneficial, and in dry indoor environments, you can increase it by misting the leaves, placing the pot on a pebble tray with water, or using a room humidifier.

Fertilizer

During the spring and summer growing season, feed the plant every two to four weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer. Reduce feeding during fall and winter when growth slows. Dilute the fertilizer to half-strength to prevent salts from burning the roots. Always water the plant before fertilizing to help distribute nutrients and reduce the risk of root burn.

Repotting

Repot your Chinese Taro every one to two years, or when it becomes root-bound. Signs include roots emerging from drainage holes or slowed growth. When repotting in the spring, select a container one size larger with good drainage. Place the plant in the new pot, fill with fresh potting mix, and water lightly to settle the soil.

Propagating Chinese Taro

Propagating the Chinese Taro is done through division during repotting in spring or summer. This method involves separating the plant’s rhizomatous clumps to create new plants. Remove the parent plant from its pot and shake the soil from the roots to view the root structure.

Identify the offsets at the base of the plant, ensuring each section has its own roots and at least one growth point. Use a clean knife to separate these clumps from the main root ball. Pot each new division into its own container with a well-draining potting mix. Plant them at the same depth they were previously growing, water lightly, and place in a warm location with bright, indirect light.

Common Problems and Solutions

Yellowing leaves are a common symptom of overwatering. If the soil is consistently soggy, reduce your watering frequency and ensure the pot has adequate drainage. Drooping leaves can indicate either under or overwatering. Check the soil to determine the cause; if it is dry, water thoroughly, but if it is wet, allow the soil to dry out more between waterings.

Spider mites can also affect the plant, creating fine webbing on the undersides of leaves. Wipe the leaves with a damp cloth or use an insecticidal soap to treat an infestation.