mouse-cup taro

Mouse-cup taro should be watered once every 7 to 10 days throughout the growing season, allowing the top 1 to 2 inches of soil to dry out between waterings. It is best to use lukewarm water and avoid getting the leaves too wet as this can lead to leaf spots or rust. Water thoroughly around the base of the plant, but avoid making the soil excessively wet. Do not overwater, as too much water can cause the plant to rot. During the winter, water the plant less often, approximately once a month.

Mouse-cup taro is best grown in full to partial sunlight, with at least 4-6 hours of direct sun each day. They prefer bright light, but too much sun can burn the colorful foliage, so it's best to acclimate plants slowly. Avoid the hottest parts of the day, especially in the hottest climates. As an Amazon plant, mouse-cup taro grows best in the mild temperatures of spring and fall, taking a break in the summer and winter when temperatures can drop and sun can be in short supply.

Mouse-cup taro (Xanthosoma atrovirens 'Variegatum Monstrosum') should be pruned annually in the springtime, after the new leaves begin to emerge. During this pruning, all dead or damaging foliage should be removed from the plant, which will encourage new growth. When pruning the mouse-cup taro, it is important to cut back stems to just beyond the leaf nodes, as this will create a fuller shape and promote more foliage. Pruning should also be done with sterilized shears in order to prevent the spread of diseases or to keep the plant healthy. Lastly, making sure to lightly fertilize the plant after pruning can help it to retain and obtain the necessary nutrients for continued growth.