Amorphophallus (Amorphophallus) (Amorphophallus)
Also known as: Corpse Flower, Voodoo Lily
Amorphophallus, a genus comprising hundreds of species, features a unique reproductive trait in its female flowers. These flowers can only reproduce for a single day. Unlike many plants, Amorphophallus attracts pollinators by emitting a strong, foul odor, but it doesn't trap or consume insects; instead, it relies on the scent to draw in pollinators such as flies and beetles.
In This Article
Attributes of Amorphophallus (Amorphophallus)
Lifespan
Perennial
Plant Height
Up to 3 meters (10 feet)
Spread
Up to 1.5 meters (5 feet)
Leaf Color
Green with some varieties having patterned or mottled leaves
Flower Size
Up to 1.5 meters (5 feet)
Flower Color
Dark purple to maroon
Images of Amorphophallus (Amorphophallus)
Quickly Identify Amorphophallus (Amorphophallus)
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Amorphophallus can be identified by its massive, singular inflorescence which emits a pungent odor. Their leaves are large, umbrella-like, and the plant often has a mottled petiole resembling a snake's skin.
Scientific Classification of Amorphophallus (Amorphophallus)
Phylum
Angiosperms
Class
Monocots
Order
Alismatales
Family
Araceae
Genus
Amorphophallus
Planting and Growing of Amorphophallus (Amorphophallus)
Care Difficulty
Moderate
Watering Schedule
Every 3 days
Sunlight Requirements
Partial sun
Sunshine Duration
4-8 hours
Ideal Temperature
70-85℉
Soil Type
Potting Mix, Peat Mix
Soil pH
6.5-7.5
Fertilizer Type
Balanced
Pruning Season
Spring, Summer
Pruning Area
Branches, Leaves
Pruning Frequency
2 times a year
Repotting Season
Spring
Pot Type
Plastic, Ceramic
How to Water Amorphophallus (Amorphophallus)?
Amorphophallus requires a careful watering approach. You should water it with approximately 500 ml each session, ensuring that the soil is moistened but not waterlogged. Water thoroughly until the substrate is evenly moist but avoid excess water pooling at the base.
What are the symptoms of an underwatered Amorphophallus (Amorphophallus)?
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What should I do if my Amorphophallus (Amorphophallus) is not getting enough water?
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What are the symptoms of an overwatered Amorphophallus (Amorphophallus)?
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How to save an overwatered Amorphophallus (Amorphophallus)?
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What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Amorphophallus (Amorphophallus)?
Partial sun or full shade is ideal, providing diffused light to support growth and bloom without stressing the plant.
What is the ideal amount of light for Amorphophallus?
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How can you achieve ideal lighting for Amorphophallus?
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What benefits does Amorphophallus gain from ideal lighting?
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What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Amorphophallus (Amorphophallus)?
The ideal temperature range for the growth of Amorphophallus is between 70°F and 85°F. Within this range, the plant can perform its physiological processes optimally, ensuring healthy growth and development.
What Soil is Best for Amorphophallus (Amorphophallus)?
Amorphophallus requires well-drained soil to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. Well-drained soil ensures that excess water can flow away and air can penetrate the soil, keeping the roots healthy. This plant thrives in nutrient-rich soil, which provides essential nutrients for growth. Fertile loam soil is ideal as it contains a balanced mix of sand, silt, and clay, supplying the plant with nutrients and moisture. The soil should retain moderate moisture, preventing the plant from drying out completely. This balance ensures the plant has adequate moisture without the risk of diseases associated with overly wet conditions.
How to Fertilize Amorphophallus (Amorphophallus)?
For Amorphophallus, it's crucial to use balanced fertilization to avoid harming the plant. A liquid fertilizer at half the recommended strength should be used, approximately 1 teaspoon per gallon of water for monthly applications. For solid fertilizer, a slow-release 14-14-14 or similar formulation should be lightly sprinkled across the soil surface, with about 1 tablespoon per plant, ensuring it is distributed evenly.
How to Prune Amorphophallus (Amorphophallus)?
Begin by examining the plant thoroughly to identify areas that need pruning. Look for yellowing or dead leaves. 2. Use your sterilized cutting tool to trim these leaves as close to the base as possible without damaging the main stem. 3. Ensure all cuts are clean to prevent tearing the leaf or stem. 4. Dispose of the trimmed leaves properly to avoid spreading any disease. 5. After pruning, water your Amorphophallus appropriately to help it recover. During spring and summer, when the Amorphophallus is actively growing, it's important to prune with caution. Too much pruning can stress the plant, so focus only on necessary leaf removal. This will help the plant to focus on growing robust and healthy foliage.
How to Propagate Amorphophallus (Amorphophallus) plant?
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Select a well-draining potting mix with ample organic matter. This will support seedling development by providing nutrients while preventing waterlogging.
2
Sow the seeds evenly across the surface of the medium and cover them with a thin layer of soil. Maintain a consistent moisture level for optimal germination.
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Carefully dig up the mature tubers in early spring. Use a clean, sharp knife to cut them into sections, ensuring each section has at least one growth bud.
How to Repot Amorphophallus (Amorphophallus) plant?
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Amorphophallus shows signs when it's ready for repotting: roots emerging from the bottom of the pot, stagnant growth, or top-heavy structure. These indicators suggest the plant has outgrown its current container and requires more space to flourish.
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Select a pot with good drainage and one that is one size larger than the current one. This prevents root rot by allowing excess water to escape, and it provides ample room for roots to expand, promoting healthy growth.
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Opt for well-draining, nutrient-rich soil that mimics the plant's natural environment. This ensures the tuber receives the necessary nutrients while preventing waterlogging, which could lead to root rot.
