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Glite Dictionary
Colocasia

Colocasia

9.9
A group of tropical plants that includes the taro plant
  • noun
  • /ˌkɒləˈkeɪziə/
  • Specialized
translation icon : Colocasia
  • The leaves of Colocasia are often used in traditional dishes in parts of Asia.

Examples

  • Several species of Colocasia are cultivated for their edible corms.

  • Botanists have identified new varieties within the genus Colocasia.

  • The Colocasia plant thrives in wet, tropical environments.

  • Many farmers in Asia grow Colocasia for its edible tubers.

  • In tropical gardens, Colocasia plants thrive in moist conditions and can grow quite large.

  • Many chefs prefer using Colocasia for making traditional dishes like taro cake.

  • The beautiful leaves of Colocasia add an exotic touch to any landscape design.

Synonyms

genus Colocasia
vsColocasia
  • Specialized
9.5

A small group of tropical plants like taro with edible starchy roots

is identical in meaning but describes them as perennial tuberous herbs instead

Compounds

Colocasia esculenta
  • Specialized
9.9

A tropical plant with large shiny leaves and a starchy root used for food

genus Colocasia
  • Specialized
9.5

A small group of tropical plants like taro with edible starchy roots

Surface Forms

Colocasia singular
Colocasias plural

Etymology

Colocasia comes from the old Greek name kolokasion, which was used for the taro plant and probably came from Egyptian. A helpful way to remember is that Colocasia is the scientific name for the plant many people call 'taro', a tropical plant with big leaves and an edible root.