Eddo
Colocasia Antiquorum
Colocasia Antiquorum, commonly known as Eddo, is a tropical plant prized for its large, lush leaves and edible tubers. Native to Southeast Asia, it thrives in warm, humid environments, making it a popular choice for gardens and indoor spaces alike.
Everything it needs
9 essentials at a glance
Watering
Colocasia Antiquorum prefers consistently moist soil, so water it thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry.
During the growing season (spring and summer), this may mean watering every 2-3 days, while in the fall and winter, reduce frequency to once a week. Signs of over-watering include yellowing leaves and root rot, while under-watering may cause wilting and browning leaf edges.
Light
Eddo thrives in partial shade to full sun, ideally receiving 4-6 hours of bright, indirect light daily.
Avoid placing it in direct afternoon sun, which can scorch the leaves. It can tolerate some shade, making it suitable for garden beds with dappled sunlight.
Soil
This plant prefers rich, well-draining soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.0.
A potting mix that includes peat moss, compost, and perlite works well to retain moisture while allowing excess water to drain. Ensure the pot has drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.
Humidity
Colocasia Antiquorum enjoys high humidity levels of 60% or more.
To increase humidity, consider misting the leaves regularly, using a pebble tray with water, or placing a humidifier nearby. Signs of low humidity include browning leaf tips and edges.
Temperature
Ideal temperatures range from 65°F to 85°F (18°C to 29°C).
Eddo is not frost-tolerant and should be protected from temperatures below 50°F (10°C). It thrives in USDA hardiness zones 8-11, making it suitable for warmer climates.
Fertilizing
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10 every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
In fall and winter, reduce feeding to once every 8 weeks. Signs of nutrient deficiency include yellowing leaves and stunted growth.
Pruning
Prune Eddo in early spring to remove any dead or damaged leaves.
Use clean, sharp pruning shears to make clean cuts at the base of the stem. Regularly deadhead spent leaves to promote new growth and maintain a tidy appearance.
Repotting
Repot Eddo every 1-2 years or when it becomes root-bound.
Signs it needs repotting include roots growing out of the drainage holes or stunted growth. Choose a pot 1-2 inches larger in diameter and refresh the soil. Carefully remove the plant, loosen the roots, and place it in the new pot with fresh soil.
Propagation
Propagation can be achieved through division or offsets.
In spring, carefully separate the tubers from the main plant, ensuring each division has roots and at least one leaf. Replant them in moist soil, and keep them warm and humid until they establish. Alternatively, seeds can be sown in warm soil, but this method takes longer.
When it's unhappy
Yellow leaves
Why it happens
Over-watering or nutrient deficiency.
How to fix it
Check soil moisture and reduce watering frequency. Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer to address nutrient deficiency.
Brown leaf tips
Why it happens
Low humidity or under-watering.
How to fix it
Increase humidity levels through misting or a humidifier and ensure consistent watering.
Wilting leaves
Why it happens
Under-watering or root rot.
How to fix it
Water the plant thoroughly if the soil is dry. If root rot is suspected, remove the plant from the pot, trim away rotten roots, and repot in fresh soil.
Stunted growth
Why it happens
Root-bound or nutrient deficiency.
How to fix it
Repot the plant into a larger container and provide adequate fertilization to encourage growth.
Leaf scorch
Why it happens
Excessive direct sunlight.
How to fix it
Move the plant to a location with partial shade to prevent leaf damage.
Care through the year
Spring
In spring, begin regular watering and fertilizing as the plant emerges from dormancy. Prune any dead leaves and prepare for new growth.
Summer
During summer, maintain consistent moisture and high humidity. Monitor for pests and provide shade during the hottest parts of the day.
Fall
In fall, gradually reduce watering as the plant enters dormancy. Continue to fertilize until late fall, then stop feeding.
Winter
In winter, keep the plant in a warm location and reduce watering to prevent root rot. Protect from cold drafts and consider moving indoors if temperatures drop.
Toxicity & Safety
Colocasia Antiquorum is mildly toxic to pets and humans if ingested. The leaves and tubers contain calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause irritation, swelling, and digestive distress. Symptoms of ingestion include mouth and throat irritation, nausea, and vomiting.
Good to know
Why are my Eddo leaves turning yellow?
Yellowing leaves on your Eddo can indicate over-watering or a lack of nutrients. Ensure you are not watering too frequently and consider fertilizing with a balanced fertilizer.
How often should I water my Colocasia Antiquorum?
Water your Eddo when the top inch of soil feels dry, which may be every 2-3 days during the growing season and weekly in the fall and winter.
What light conditions are best for Eddo?
Eddo thrives in partial shade to full sun, ideally receiving 4-6 hours of bright, indirect light daily. Avoid direct afternoon sun to prevent leaf scorch.
How can I increase humidity for my Eddo plant?
To increase humidity, mist the leaves regularly, use a pebble tray with water, or place a humidifier nearby to create a more suitable environment.
When is the best time to repot Eddo?
The best time to repot Eddo is in early spring when it is actively growing. Look for signs of being root-bound or stunted growth as indicators.
Is Colocasia Antiquorum toxic to pets?
Yes, Eddo is mildly toxic to pets and humans if ingested, primarily due to calcium oxalate crystals found in its leaves and tubers.
How do I propagate Eddo?
You can propagate Eddo through division in spring. Carefully separate the tubers from the main plant, ensuring each has roots and at least one leaf, then replant them.
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