Xanthosoma albomarginata, Xanthosoma atrovirens albomarginata

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Xanthosoma albomarginata Mickey Mouse Taro is a show stopper! it has irregularly margined leaves which when first opening, its edges are a cream yellow, later turning white, and often swirled. Leaves are never identical most are streaked with large blotches of white on dark blue green leaves. Most notably, small cup-like pockets and a small string-like structure may form at their leaf tips. Plants usually grow with leaves held horizontally and reach 3-4 ft at full maturity.

Xanthosoma albomarginata is native to South America and can be grown in USDA Zone 8-10. It has an upright clump-forming habit and small rhizomes as well as dark-green, 2 ft leaves. New, young leaves may have white stippling and a cream-yellow margin.

Growing Xanthosoma albomarginata is fairly easy. Provide it a moist, well-drained and humus-rich soil with full to part shade. In cold regions, it is best to grow the Taro in pots and bring indoors for winter. Keep it in a spot with indirect light, although it can also usually take some direct sun. During winter, be conscious of over-watering, but also wary of drought stress during the hotter months. If necessary, apply fertilizer during the warmer months, but maintain light use. Prune and shape as needed and be sure to use sharp and clean tools to avoid infection in the wounds.

Xanthosoma albomarginata Mickey Mouse Taro is an exotic, unusual and eye-catching plant that stands out like no other Aroid. It adds an interesting and unique touch to any garden and is sure to be a conversation piece. A must-have for any avid collector, it flourishes in a shady border or a semi-shade woodland garden. With proper care and maintenance, the tree will reward with beautiful flowers and foliage.

Similar plants:

• Caladium lindenii, Xanthosoma lindenii Magnifica (Angel's Wing)
• Xanthosoma sagittifolium, Xanthosoma violaceum, Xanthosoma atrovirens, Arum nigrum, Xanthosoma nigrum (Tannia, Malanga Blanca, Yautia, Cocoyam, Eddo, Coco, Sato-imo, Japanese Potatoes)
• Xanthosoma sp. (Xanthosoma)