noun
a variety of taro; yam-like taro
A cultivar of taro (里芋) with a shape that resembles multiple clustered heads, often used in traditional New Year's dishes.
See also: 里芋
おせち料理に八つ頭を入れると縁起が良いと言われている。
It is said that adding yatsugashira to New Year's dishes brings good luck.
里芋 is the general term for taro, while 八つ頭 is a specific variety with a distinctive shape and cultural significance.
The name 八つ頭 (yatsugashira) likely comes from the appearance of the taro corm, which has multiple protrusions resembling several heads (八つ meaning 'eight' and 頭 meaning 'head'). The exact historical origin of the name is uncertain.