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Can You Grow Taro (Arbi / Colocasia) in Rhode Island?

US · USDA Zone 6b · zones 6a, 6b

Grow indoors

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

Plant zones

7a–11b

Rhode Island last frost

mid-March

Rhode Island first frost

mid-November

Days to harvest

150–200 days

When to plant Taro (Arbi / Colocasia)s in Rhode Island

Start indoors

Jan 17

Transplant

Mar 15

Harvest

Aug 12 – Oct 1

Dates are approximate, based on Rhode Island'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 Rhode Island

Rhode Island has a humid continental climate moderated by the ocean. A small state with a single primary zone of 6b in most areas. Four seasons with a productive growing window.