Species tannia
lime-green foliage with green stems

tannia

Xanthosoma sagittifolium

Tannia (Xanthosoma sagittifolium) is an edible plant native to South America. Its leaves, which can grow up to 12 inches long, are large, arrow-shaped and bright green. The plant produces pink-tinged white tubers with thin skins that make them easy to peel. Tannia tubers are highly nutritious and have a mild, sweet flavor--high in carbohydrates, fiber and vitamins A and C. They are widely used in Latin American cuisine and have become popular in Europe and the United States. Tannia has a number of health benefits, including improved digestive health and lower cholesterol levels. This hardy, easy-to-grow plant is an excellent addition to both culinary and ornamental gardens.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Division,Stem Propagation,Air Layering Propagation,Seed Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

8 - 10

Flowers:

Greenish white spathe with white spadix Flowers

Sun:

part shade,part sun/part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Invasive:

Yes

Tropical:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Tannia (Xanthosoma sagittifolium) needs to be kept consistently moist, but never left sitting in water. Water thoroughly and wait until the top 2-3 inches of soil is starting to dry out before watering again. During normal seasonal temperatures, this could be once a week. In hotter temperatures, watering may be needed more often. During the winter months, tannias need much less water and should only be watered when the top 2 to 3 inches of soil feel dry.

sunlight

Tannia (Xanthosoma sagittifolium) plants prefer bright indirect sunlight. Ensure that the sun does not directly shine on the foliage as it may affect its growth. It is best to place the tannia in a location that receives 4 to 6 hours of indirect sunlight a day. In nature, the tannia can typically be found growing in bright shady areas; while at home you can position the tannia near a window to benefit from the natural light or supplement it with grow lights if necessary.

pruning

Pruning for a tannia plant (Xanthosoma sagittifolium) should be done when the plant starts to get overgrown and its leaves become discolored or wilted. Pruning should be done during the spring and autumn times when temperatures are moderate and the risk of frost is low, as this will allow the plant to regenerate healthy new growth. Prune off any dead or dying leaves, stems, and flower heads. Cut back any overly dense stems and branches, and cut back foliage to 1-3 inches from the soil line. If possible, use clean cutters that have been disinfected in rubbing alcohol or a household bleach solution. Prune just enough to help the plant maintain its desired shape.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Xanthosoma sagittifolium typically starts flowering in late spring or early summer, usually between May and July.

Starts Flowering

Xanthosoma sagittifolium typically starts flowering in late spring or early summer, usually between May and July.

Hardiness Map