The ‘Toro’ plant (Colocasia esculenta ‘Toro’) is a striking ornamental cultivar of common taro or elephant ear. Valued for its dramatic foliage, it brings a lush, tropical aesthetic and a bold visual statement to gardens and containers.
Understanding the Toro Plant
The ‘Toro’ plant, a cultivar of Colocasia esculenta (taro or elephant ear), originates from tropical eastern Asia. This tuberous perennial is cultivated for its aesthetic appeal, featuring large, heart-shaped to arrow-shaped leaves with a soft, velvety texture and a rich, dark green to almost black coloration. Unlike its relative Alocasia, ‘Toro’ foliage gracefully droops downwards, with individual leaves reaching up to 2 feet long on stout stems. The plant typically grows 3 to 6 feet tall and wide, forming a dense, clumping habit.
Cultivation and Care
Light Requirements
The ‘Toro’ plant thrives in full sun to partial shade. Full sun encourages vigorous growth and intensifies leaf coloration. However, in very hot summers, afternoon shade prevents leaf scorching.
Watering Needs
These tropical plants prefer consistently moist to wet soil. Regular watering is important, especially during dry periods, to maintain hydration. ‘Toro’ can even grow as a marginal aquatic plant, tolerating up to 6 inches of standing water, highlighting its significant water needs. Despite loving water, good drainage is still important to prevent stagnant conditions around the corms.
Soil and Nutrients
An ideal growing medium for ‘Toro’ is organically rich, fertile soil that retains moisture well. It adapts to various soil types, from well-drained to consistently saturated conditions. A slightly acidic to neutral soil pH is preferred. Incorporating organic matter, like compost, provides continuous nutrients and improves soil structure.
Temperature and Humidity
As a tropical species, ‘Toro’ flourishes in warm, humid environments, performing best between 68 to 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit (20 to 38 degrees Celsius). It is sensitive to frost and cool temperatures, preferring conditions above 59 degrees Fahrenheit (15 degrees Celsius). Like many tropical plants, ‘Toro’ benefits from higher humidity, ideally 40-60%.
Fertilization
To support its rapid growth and large foliage, ‘Toro’ benefits from regular fertilization during the active growing season. Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer every few weeks in spring and summer. Alternatively, incorporate slow-release granular fertilizers or well-rotted compost at the season’s start for sustained nourishment.
Winterizing and Dormancy
In cold winter regions, ‘Toro’ is frost-tender. While tubers may remain in the ground year-round in USDA Zones 8-10, colder climates require digging them up before the first hard frost. After lifting, allow corms to dry for one to two weeks. Store them in a cool, dry, frost-free location above 41-45 degrees Fahrenheit (5-7 degrees Celsius). Storing in dry peat moss or wood shavings helps prevent rot during dormancy, and watering should be significantly reduced or stopped.
Propagating Toro Plants
Propagating ‘Toro’ plants is primarily achieved by dividing their corms or tubers. The optimal time for division is in spring, as new growth emerges. To propagate, carefully dig up the mature plant and gently separate the smaller offsets, or “pups,” from the main corm; each should have its own roots and a growth point. Plant these divisions in new locations or pots at the same depth as the original plant. Consistent moisture and warmth after planting encourage rapid rooting and new foliage development.
Common Issues and Solutions
‘Toro’ plants can sometimes encounter issues related to pests, diseases, or environmental stress. Prompt identification and appropriate action can help maintain plant health.
Pests
Pests like spider mites, aphids, and caterpillars can infest ‘Toro’ foliage. Symptoms include distorted leaves, sticky residue, or visible insects. Regular inspection and insecticidal soap or neem oil manage infestations.
Fungal Diseases
Fungal diseases, including root rot from overwatering or poor drainage, cause yellowing leaves, stunted growth, and mushy corms. Proper watering and well-draining soil prevent this. Leaf blight (Phytophthora colocasiae) appears as dark, water-soaked spots; improve air circulation and avoid overhead watering to reduce risk.
Environmental Stressors
Environmental stressors like nutrient deficiencies or improper watering can cause yellowing leaves. Older yellowing leaves may indicate nitrogen deficiency; overall yellowing signals water stress. Consistent fertilization and proper soil moisture address these. Leaf scorch, appearing as burned spots, results from too much direct sunlight, requiring more shade.