Coco Yam: An Aquatic Twist on a Familiar Favorite
If you’re drawn to water gardens and unique foliage plants, you might have stumbled across Colocasia esculenta var. aquatilis, commonly known as coco yam. This intriguing aquatic variety brings a tropical flair to water features, but before you dive in, let’s explore what makes this plant special—and whether it’s the right fit for your garden.
What is Coco Yam?
Coco yam (Colocasia esculenta var. aquatilis) is a perennial forb—essentially a soft-stemmed plant without woody tissue that comes back year after year. Unlike its land-loving relatives, this aquatic variety has adapted to life in and around water, making it a fascinating addition to water gardens and bog areas.
Where Does It Come From?
Here’s where things get interesting: coco yam isn’t actually native to the United States. It’s what botanists call a naturalized plant—one that was introduced from elsewhere but has settled in so well that it now reproduces on its own in the wild. In the U.S., you’ll find it growing naturally in Florida, where the warm, humid climate suits its tropical origins perfectly.
Should You Grow Coco Yam?
The decision to grow coco yam comes down to your garden goals and local conditions. Since it’s non-native but not currently listed as invasive, you won’t be breaking any environmental rules by planting it. However, it’s always worth considering native alternatives that provide similar benefits while supporting local ecosystems.
Reasons You Might Love It:
- Adds exotic, tropical appeal to water features
- Thrives in wet conditions where other plants struggle
- Creates dramatic foliage displays
- Relatively low-maintenance once established
Reasons You Might Skip It:
- Limited cold tolerance (likely restricted to warmer zones)
- May spread aggressively in ideal conditions
- Doesn’t provide the same wildlife benefits as native plants
- Availability can be limited
Growing Coco Yam Successfully
If you’ve decided to give coco yam a try, here’s what you need to know about keeping it happy:
Ideal Growing Conditions:
- Water: This variety loves consistently moist to wet soil—think bog gardens, pond margins, or water features
- Light: Partial shade to full sun, though some afternoon shade in hot climates is beneficial
- Climate: Warm, humid conditions; likely hardy in USDA zones 9-11
- Soil: Rich, organic matter-heavy soil that retains moisture
Planting and Care Tips:
- Plant in spring after the last frost has passed
- Keep soil consistently moist—never let it dry out completely
- Feed with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer during the growing season
- In colder areas, treat as an annual or bring indoors for winter
- Divide clumps every few years to prevent overcrowding
Garden Design Ideas
Coco yam shines in water-focused landscapes. Consider using it around pond edges, in rain gardens, or as a bold statement plant in consistently moist borders. Its large leaves create wonderful textural contrast against fine-leaved water plants and grasses.
Native Alternatives to Consider
If you’re leaning toward supporting native ecosystems, consider these alternatives that provide similar dramatic foliage in wet conditions:
- Wild ginger (Asarum canadense) for shaded, moist areas
- Swamp hibiscus (Hibiscus moscheutos) for stunning flowers and large leaves
- Native sedges and rushes for waterside plantings
- Pickerel rush (Pontederia cordata) for pond margins
The Bottom Line
Coco yam can be a striking addition to water gardens and wet landscapes, especially if you’re creating a tropical-themed space. While it’s not native, it’s also not currently considered problematic. Just remember that every plant choice is a vote for the kind of ecosystem you want to support. Whether you choose coco yam or a native alternative, the most important thing is creating a garden that brings you joy while being mindful of your local environment.
Before planting, check with your local extension office about any regional concerns, and always source plants from reputable nurseries to ensure you’re getting healthy, responsibly grown specimens.
