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Description
Amorphophallus is a genus of flowering plants that belongs to the family Araceae. The genus comprises about 170 species of perennial plants native to the tropics of Asia and Africa. The plants grow from tubers and produce a single, large leaf that can reach up to 6 feet in diameter. The leaf is divided into leaflets that radiate from a central stalk. Some species produce a tall, erect inflorescence that emits a foul odor to attract pollinators, while others have a shorter, more compact inflorescence.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Monocotyledonae |
| Order | Alismatales |
| Family | Araceae |
| Genus | Amorphophallus |
Appearance
Amorphophallus plants are known for their unique appearance. They produce a single, large leaf that can range in color from green to purple. The leaf is divided into leaflets that radiate from a central stalk. Some species produce a tall, erect inflorescence that can reach up to 10 feet in height. The inflorescence emits a foul odor to attract pollinators, and is usually green or purple in color. The plants grow from tubers that can be as large as a basketball.
Care Guide
Amorphophallus plants are relatively easy to care for. They require regular watering, fertilization, and well-draining soil. The plants prefer bright, indirect sunlight, and should be kept in hardiness zones 9 to 11. Here are some tips for caring for Amorphophallus plants:- Water: Amorphophallus plants require regular watering, but should be allowed to dry out slightly between waterings. Overwatering can cause the tubers to rot.- Fertilization: Amorphophallus plants should be fertilized every 2 to 4 weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.- Soil: Amorphophallus plants prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A mixture of peat moss, perlite, and sand is ideal.- Sunlight: Amorphophallus plants prefer bright, indirect sunlight. They should be kept out of direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.- Hardiness Zones: Amorphophallus plants should be kept in hardiness zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Amorphophallus plants are relatively pest and disease resistant. However, they can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Here are some common pests and diseases that can affect Amorphophallus plants:- Root Rot: Overwatering can cause the tubers to rot, leading to plant death.- Mealybugs: Mealybugs are small, white insects that feed on the plant’s sap. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap.- Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny, red insects that spin webs on the plant’s leaves. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap.
Habitat
Amorphophallus plants are native to the tropics of Asia and Africa. They grow in a variety of habitats, including rainforests, savannas, and grasslands. The plants prefer warm, humid climates, and can be found at elevations ranging from sea level to over 10,000 feet.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the foul odor emitted by some Amorphophallus species?
A: The foul odor is produced by compounds that mimic the scent of rotting meat. The odor attracts carrion beetles and flesh flies, which are the primary pollinators of these species.
Q: How often should I water my Amorphophallus plant?
A: Amorphophallus plants should be watered regularly, but should be allowed to dry out slightly between waterings. Overwatering can cause the tubers to rot.
Q: Can Amorphophallus plants be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Amorphophallus plants can be grown indoors, but they require bright, indirect sunlight and well-draining soil. They can also emit a foul odor when they bloom, so it’s important to consider this when choosing a location.
Q: Can Amorphophallus plants be propagated from cuttings?
A: No, Amorphophallus plants cannot be propagated from cuttings. They are propagated from tubers, which can be divided in the spring.
Related Plants
– Alocasia- Arisaema- Colocasia- Dieffenbachia- Philodendron
References
– “Amorphophallus.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a464.- “Amorphophallus.” Plants of the World Online, www.plantsoftheworldonline.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:327066-2.- “Amorphophallus.” Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, apps.kew.org/wcsp/namedetail.do?name_id=7759.
