Coco-yam
Colocasia esculenta
Last reviewed: June 2026
Coco-yam is toxic to dogs and cats.
Listed as toxic by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (last reviewed 2026-05-21). If your pet has been exposed, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435and your veterinarian's emergency line.
Pollinator Patch flags toxic plants so you can choose a pet-safe native alternative for your yard.
Light
part sun
Water
high
Size
24"–48" H × 24"–48" W
Bloom
N/A
Native to
AL, FL, LA, MS and 2 more states
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Colocasia esculenta produces large, heart-shaped leaves that create a bold tropical appearance in the garden. This moisture-loving perennial thrives in partial sun and requires consistent watering to maintain its lush foliage. The plant forms substantial clumps that can serve as dramatic focal points in landscape beds.
In an HOA neighborhood
Coco-yam takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: moderate. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Very tropical appearance conflicts with traditional Southern landscapes
- Large leaves can look messy when damaged
- Not native and may be viewed as exotic or inappropriate
Wildlife value
This plant provides minimal wildlife value as it rarely flowers in cultivation and offers limited resources for native pollinators. The large leaves may provide shelter for small wildlife but do not support local ecosystem food webs.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Pollinator Patch flags toxic plants like Coco-yam and shows pet-safe natives for your ecoregion instead.