Xanthosoma

Xanthosoma is a genus of flowering plants in the family Araceae, commonly known as malangas or Yautia. These plants are native to tropical America, from Mexico and the Caribbean down to South America. They are herbaceous perennial plants that grow from corms, which are swollen underground plant stems.

The leaves of Xanthosoma are typically large and arrow-shaped, often with a velvety texture and prominent venation. The plants produce spathes and spadices, characteristic of the Araceae family, which are the flower structures. The spathe is usually greenish-white to yellowish, enclosing the spadix where the flowers are located.

The primary importance of Xanthosoma lies in its edible corms, which are starchy and nutritious. These corms are a staple food in many tropical regions, consumed boiled, fried, or mashed. Different species and cultivars of Xanthosoma are cultivated for their tubers, with variations in size, shape, and taste.

Beyond their culinary uses, some Xanthosoma species are grown as ornamental plants for their striking foliage. Their large, dramatic leaves can add a tropical feel to gardens and landscapes. Xanthosoma plants generally prefer warm, humid climates and well-drained soil, often thriving in moist, fertile areas.