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Can You Grow Taro (Arbi / Colocasia) in Massachusetts?

US · USDA Zone 6a · zones 5b, 6a, 6b

Grow indoors

Start in a large pot and keep consistently moist — move outdoors in summer for best growth.

Plant zones

7a–11b

Massachusetts last frost

early April

Massachusetts first frost

late October

Days to harvest

150–200 days

When to plant Taro (Arbi / Colocasia)s in Massachusetts

Start indoors

Feb 3

Transplant

Apr 1

Harvest

Aug 29 – Oct 18

Dates are approximate, based on Massachusetts's average frost dates. Your exact yard may vary by microclimate.

About Taro (Arbi / Colocasia)

Taro (arbi) is a staple starchy corm used across Indian, Caribbean, Hawaiian, and African cuisines. The large decorative leaves make it a striking ornamental too. Grow from corms — never eat raw (the raw plant contains calcium oxalate crystals that must be destroyed by cooking).

Start corms indoors 8 weeks before last frost. Loves warmth, humidity, and consistently moist soil. Can grow in water or very wet soil. Harvest corms in fall when leaves yellow. Always cook thoroughly before eating. Can overwinter indoors as a houseplant.

Full taro (arbi / colocasia) growing guide →

Gardening in Massachusetts

Massachusetts has a humid continental climate. Boston and coastal areas are Zone 6a-6b; inland areas are colder at Zone 5b-6a. Four seasons with a 5-6 month growing window.