Xanthosoma aurea 'Lime Zinger'

Xanthosoma aurea 'Lime Zinger' Care

Xanthosoma aurea 'Lime Zinger'

What is the plant

Xanthosoma aurea is a collector's plant, mainly grown in botanical gardens and greenhouses, rarely as a houseplant. It belongs to the Araceae family and, due to its appearance, is a relative of such plants as Alocasia and Colocasia. The plant has no clear origin, but it is known to be native to tropical America and is prized for its starchy tubers and edible leaves.

Xanthosoma aurea can be identified by its distinctive yellow-green leaves that grow more than 45 cm (1.5 ft) wide. It has a thick underground stem in the form of a rhizome, from which shoots and peduncles grow later.
The spathe is cylindrical in shape, with male flowers in the upper part, and barren and female flowers in the middle and lower part, respectively. Grows for 9 to 11 months, with bulbs and leaves developing in the first 6 months, and at the end of growth, the leaves begin to dry, indicating readiness for harvest.
The entire plant contains sharp oxalate crystals that irritate the skin, so it is prepared before consumption.

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Humidity

Normal

Lighting

Part Sun

Temperature

19°C - 25°C

Hardiness zone

7b - 11

Difficulty

Easy

How to Care for the Plant

Water
Water after the top layer of the soil dries and periodically spray the plant. During the growing season, watering should be increased, but it is important not to overdo it. In winter, keep an eye on the tuber and do not allow it to dry out completely.
Pruning
Cut off damaged or dead leaves with a sharp, disinfected blade to prevent disease and rot.
Fertilizer
Use a water-soluble, slow-release fertilizer once a month. If the intensity of plant growth is too high, stop applying fertilizers for 1-2 months.

Disease diagnosis

Check your plant’s health

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Sunlight
The plant needs a lot of sunlight, so place it near a sunny window for better growth and prosperity.
Soil
Use light, well-drained, moist soil with high nutrient content.
Propagation
Separate the tuber sprout or rhizome from the healthy plant in the spring, then place it in a potting mix for some time before planting it in well-drained soil.

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Temperature
The plant is well adapted to a variety of temperatures, but it should not go below 50˚F (10°C).
Container
Make sure the container is large enough and has drainage holes, as the plant needs a lot of space.
Fun fact
The leaves look like an "Elephant's Ear" and are used in cooking in the same way as spinach, and in terms of its valuable properties, it is not inferior to it.