Is Taro poisonous to dogs or cats?

Taro

  • Scientific Name: Colocasia esculenta
  • Also Known As: Taro, dasheen, cocoyam
  • Is It Toxic? Yes
  • Toxins: Insoluble calcium oxalates
  • Symptoms: Mucosal irritation and inflammation, possible blistering, hypersalivation; if large amounts, dysphagia, airway obstruction, respiratory compromise
  • Toxic Parts:
  • General:

Taro is a plant commonly used as a vegetable. It is the root of the plant Taro cv. Chinese taro (Colocasia esculenta var. esculenta), sometimes referred to as Taro or sweet potato. The root is cooked and eaten as a food. Taro has a thick brown or black flesh and it grows in an edible root from which starch is released as the plant is cooked. Taro contains several toxic elements, including potassium oxalate. Toxicity may vary from plant to plant, so always check your ingredient label for warning labels.

What is Taro?

Taro is a common leafy vegetable found in Africa and Asia. It can grow to a height of 4 m (13 ft). The root of Taro is the edible part used to prepare many common dishes.