Polynesian arrowroot

Description

Several petioles 17-150 cm (6.7-59.1 in) in length extend from the center of the plant, on which the large leaves (30-70 cm or 12-28 in long and up to 120 cm or 47 in wide) are attached. The leaf's upper surface has depressed veins, and the under surface is shiny with bold yellow veins. Flowers are borne on tall stalks in greenish-purple clusters, with long trailing bracts. The plant is usually dormant for part of the year and dies down to the ground. Later, new leaves will arise from the round underground tuber. The tubers are hard and potato-like, with a brown skin and white interior.