Xanthosoma albo-marginata - Mickey Mouse Taro


Xanthosoma albo-marginata - Mickey Mouse Taro

Small plant 2-5 ftSemi-shadeModerate waterRegular waterOrnamental foliage

Mickey Mouse Taro, Mighty Mouse. This curious variety of elephant ear is a must for every rare plant collection. Unusually variegated Aroid, it has irregularly margined leaves which when first opening, its edges are a cream yellow, later turning white, and often swirled. A show stopper! This plant is thought to be a mutation of a species. Most think it is a form of atrovirens or even a possible hybrid. The leaves are never identical most are streaked with large blotches of white on dark blue green leaves. One of the most odd features of the plant is the fact that most leaves will develop a small cup like pocket at the leaf tip and sometimes a small string like structure will form. Plants usually grow with leaves held horizontally. It is always a conversation piece in the garden. Mighty Mouse can reach 3-4 ft at full maturity making it a wonderful addition to your jungle. Plants produce tubers and can be wintered in either in a greenhouse or cool storage.

Recommended Fertilizer: SUNSHINE Robusta - Rapid Growth Booster
Grown in
10"/3 gal pot
3 plants in stock
$39.95

Plant form ?
Small plant
Mature height ?
2-5 ft tall
Sun exposure
semi-shade
USDA zone ?
Zone 9-11.
Hardiness ?
Protect from freezing.
Watering
Moderate watering, Regular watering
Growing conditions
Outdoors in the suitable USDA zone, Small backyard, Pot-growing, Indoors
Foliage color
Ornamental foliage
More information

This item is not certified for shipping to California, Texas, Louisiana, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, US Virgin Islands, Arizona More info
California certification
Most of our plants are certified for shipping to California, Texas, Arizona, Louisiana, Puerto Rico, Hawaii, US Virgin Islands, however, certain plants are not certified. Please do not order not-certified plants to addresses in these states. These plants may be added to certification in the future; please contact us for more information. Plant shipping to California, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, US Virgin Islands and some other destinations requires a phytosanitary certificate. The certificate cost is included into S&H.

Xanthosoma albo-marginata - Mickey Mouse Taro: Planting and Care Instructions

Plant Overview

Growth habit: This is a small herbaceous plant, growing between 2 and 5 feet. It is great for flower beds, pots, or small garden spots.

Growing conditions: This plant can be grown outdoors in the suitable USDA zone. It is well-suited for small backyards, pots, or indoor spaces with enough light.

Watering: This plant does best with moderate to regular watering. Water it regularly, but let the top layer dry slightly between waterings.

Sun exposure: This plant prefers semi-shade. It grows well in places that get filtered sunlight or partial sun during the day.

USDA Zone: Zone 9-11. The USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map categorizes North America into zones based on average annual minimum winter temperatures, each differing by 10 °F. This map serves as a basic guide for selecting appropriate plants for a region. However, it's not definitive; plant varieties vary in cold tolerance, and young plants typically need more protection. Additionally, local microclimates, like sheltered areas or sunny spots, can influence plant health and survivability beyond the general zone recommendation.

Hardiness: Protect from freezing. Plant hardiness indicates the coldest temperature a mature plant can endure briefly while staying healthy. This rating is a guideline and can vary among varieties of the same species. Young plants often need more cold protection. Additionally, a plant's survival can be enhanced by the microclimate of its location, which may provide shelter from wind or extra warmth, allowing it to thrive beyond its typical hardiness range.

Foliage: This plant is grown for its ornamental foliage, which adds texture or color to the landscape even when not in bloom.

Outdoor planting

Select a planting spot that fits the plant sun and moisture needs. Loosen the soil and mix in compost or organic matter to improve poor soil. Dig a hole just slightly larger than the root ball and avoid planting deeper than it was before. For better drainage, the top of the root ball can sit slightly above the surrounding soil. Provide temporary shade at first if conditions are hot or sunny. Water regularly and monitor soil moisture until the plant is well rooted. nAdd mulch around the base to keep the soil moist and reduce weeds. Shape the mulch to form a shallow basin for water, but keep mulch away from the stem.

Indoor planting

Use a container with drainage holes and a well-draining potting mix. Position the plant so that the top of the root ball is level with the surface of the soil - avoid planting too deep. A slow-release fertilizer can be mixed into the soil at planting time to support healthy growth. Place the plant in a location that matches its light needs, and water according to its care requirements. Be careful not to overwater, and ensure good airflow around the plant to reduce the risk of pests and disease.

Protecting Plants in Winter

When it gets cold, some plants need extra help. You can move potted plants indoors or under a covered patio. Young plants need extra protection because they are more sensitive to cold and less established. For plants in the ground, use frost cloth to keep them warm. Stop using fertilizer in late fall so plants can rest. Try to place plants in areas protected from cold wind, rain, and frost.

Cold Hardiness and Microclimates

USDA zone and hardiness are only general guidelines. Actual cold tolerance can vary based on plant variety and local conditions. Even small differences between varieties can matter. Also, warmer spots in your yard—like near a wall or fence—can help plants survive cold nights. These little warm areas are called microclimates, and they make a big difference.

Outdoor and indoor planting instructions