Malanga

Xanthosoma sagittifolium

Origin South America

Edibility Malanga corms are eaten boiled or fried and make a great substitute for potato. They are mild and nutty with an earthy taste. Like Taro, their leaves can be eaten but must also be cooked.

Characteristics Similar to taro, malanga is an annual tropical root crop that likes wet soil. It also likes to be a bit shaded. Its leaves can grow quite large so it needs to be well spaced. Once harvested, a new crop can be propagated by planting secondary tubers or pieces of the main tuber.