How to plant Xanthosoma aurea rhizome divisions
Xanthosoma aurea is a collector’s plant. In this article we will learn how to plant Xanthosoma aurea rhizome divisions.
This plant is grown mainly in greenhouses and botanical gardens.
It belongs to the Araceae family and is related to plants such as Alocasia and Colocasia that have a similar appearance.
Many species of Xanthosoma are cultivated in the tropics for their rhizomes and edible leaves.
Xanthosoma aurea is known for its distinctive yellow-green leaves that can grow to over 45 cm.
It has a thick underground stem in the form of a rhizome, from which peduncles and buds grow.
In this guide we are going to plant Xanthosoma aurea ‘Lime Zinger’.
Xanthosoma aurea ‘Lime Zinger’
How to plant Xanthosoma aurea rhizome division
I received a rhizome division of Xanthosoma aurea ‘Lime Zinger’ by mail. In the same order I also received a Colocasia esculenta ‘Black Petiole’ and some cannas.
Rhizomes of Xanthosoma aurea ‘Lime Zinger’ and Colocasia esculenta ‘Black Petiole’ received by mail
These plants are easily propagated by dividing their rhizome, we just need to follow some precautions in the first few weeks.
The plant arrived well packed and protected against dehydration. I take it out of the box and unwrap the roots.
Small division of Xanthosoma aurea ‘Lime Zinger’
It is a small plant, but complete with all the elements, from the roots to the leaves.
A clean cut has been made in the rhizome and you can clearly see healthy roots, which will be enough for the Xanthosoma to develop.
Xanthosoma aurea roots, should be enough for the plant to grow
I plant it in a pot with generic potting compost.
Planting a division of Xanthosoma aurea ‘Lime Zinger’
I put a stake to hold the leaves and keep the plant in place.
I put a stake to hold the plant
I water it very well and keep it in a sheltered place, with humidity and a mild temperature for the roots to develop.
Division of Xanthosoma aurea ‘Lime Zinger’ planted in pot
See the progress of the plant on the next page…
