The Giant Swamp Taro is found in the lowland rainforests of southeast Asia, especially in Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines and surrounding islands. There, it grows along streams, rivers and in stretches of forest that are regularly flooded by rainfall. They can also grow entirely in the water, so the plant can also be planted in a tropical pond. It is a fairly large species that can reach a height of 3-4 metres in the tropics, with the leaves reaching a size of 2 metres. The leaves are arrow-shaped and have a petiole that forms spines near the ground. 

The thickened roots are cooked and eaten as a vegetable in Asia, as is the case with the common taro (Colocasia esculenta). However, the roots of the swamp taro can grow much larger, sometimes reaching a metre in length and weighing 80 kg. 

It can be kept in a light location without direct sunlight. It is important to give plenty of water and so it is possible to leave a layer of water on top of the soil. If the humidity drops below 60%, it is advisable to water the leaves with some regularity. A wide pot ensures good rhizome development. 

Sowing description: The already germinated seed can be planted directly in very moist soil. This can be potting soil mixed with some additional organic matter. For initial development, a temperature of 25-30grC is optimal. 

Family: Araceae
Scientific name: Cyrtosperma merkusii
Common name: Giant Swamp Taro
Native to: Southeast Asia

Sowing time: Year-round
Difficulty: Intermediate
Minimum temperature: 12 degrees Celsius