Arrowroot

Arrowroot rhizome from Maranta arundinacea, raw. Scientific identity: Maranta arundinacea L. Edible part: Fresh underground rhizome/root portion represented by the raw-food record. Exact source form: Raw arrowroot corresponding to USDA FoodData Central FDC 168490.

A tropical rhizome best known through its refined starch, which thickens sauces into a clear, glossy finish.

Common name

Arrowroot

Scientific name

Maranta arundinacea

Family

Marantaceae

Edition

Core Edibles

Flavor

Very mild · neutral

Texture

Crisp raw rhizome · silky starch

Season

Fresh regionally · starch year-round

Best storage

Cool fresh · dry starch

Great for

Thickening · biscuits · puddings

Know this

Fresh rhizome and refined starch are different forms

Arrowroot is not practically started from ordinary seed. Its backyard starting piece is a living rhizome—similar to starting potato or ginger.

START WITH

A healthy piece of true arrowroot rhizome with at least one visible bud

CLIMATE

Warm, humid, and frost-free for 10–12 months; roughly zones 10–12. In colder climates, use a wide container and bring it inside before frost.

LIGHT

Morning sun with afternoon shade, or bright filtered light in very hot climates

SOIL

Loose, rich, well-drained soil that stays evenly moist

1. 1

   Start it

   Lay the rhizome horizontally 2–4 inches deep with the bud facing upward. Keep above about 70°F and moist until shoots emerge.

2. 2

   Give it room

   Plant pieces 18–24 inches apart, or one vigorous piece in a container at least 16–20 inches wide.

3. 3

   Water correctly

   Water whenever the top inch begins to dry. Do not allow a container to sit in water.

4. 4

   Care for it

   Mulch to hold moisture, feed the soil with compost, and protect foliage from wind and frost.

5. 5

   Harvest

   After roughly 10–12 months, when leaves yellow and decline, loosen the soil and lift the rhizomes. Save healthy pieces with buds for replanting.

Expect a harvest in about 10–12 warm months.

After roughly 10–12 months, when leaves yellow and decline, loosen the soil and lift the rhizomes. Save healthy pieces with buds for replanting.