Source of commercial arrowroot food starch (tapioca). Traditional use of the roots as a remedy for diarrhoea in Central and South America. A poultice of the crushed leaves used as treatment for snake bite and infected wounds. Arrowroot is native of West Indies and Central Americaand prefers rich, moist soils in protected, warm, sunny position. Drought and frost tender. A perennial plant, growing to 2m x 1m.