The cultivation of the many horticultural varieties of kalo (taro - Colocasia esculenta) across the Hawaiian Island chain has resulted in many different names, or synonyms, for the currently recognized varieties. This searchable database provides information on the more than 600 documented names for Hawaiian kalo. Incorrectly applied names include the names of other plant species, or animals.
Names of Hawaiian kalo varieties pertain to an obvious growth feature, a special use, or a specific locality. Some have single word names. A binomial or trinomial name is used when a variety can be grouped with kalo which have similar characteristics. The second (or third) name is often a descriptor for distinguishing the different varieties within the group.