Contents
Description
The Amorphophallus Consimilis is a species of flowering plants native to Southeast Asia, specifically in Thailand, Laos, and Vietnam. It is commonly known as the “Voodoo Lily” due to its unique appearance that resembles a human organ. It belongs to the Araceae family, which is known for their large, showy flowers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Alismatales |
| Family | Araceae |
| Genus | Amorphophallus |
Appearance
The Amorphophallus Consimilis is a large, herbaceous perennial with a single, unbranched stem that can grow up to 1.5 meters tall. The stem is green with white spots and is covered in fine hairs. The leaves are large and palmately compound, with five to seven leaflets that are oblong to elliptic in shape. The inflorescence is a spadix, which is a tall, fleshy spike that is covered in small flowers. The spadix is surrounded by a large, showy spathe that is green on the outside and purple on the inside.
Care Guide
The Amorphophallus Consimilis is a low-maintenance plant that thrives in warm and humid conditions. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water deeply once a week or when the top inch of soil feels dry.
- Fertilization: Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.
- Soil: Use a well-draining soil mix that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Place the plant in a bright, indirect light location. Avoid direct sunlight as it can scorch the leaves.
- Hardiness Zones: The Amorphophallus Consimilis is hardy in USDA zones 10 and 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Amorphophallus Consimilis is generally pest and disease-free, but it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Here are some common pests and diseases:
- Root rot: Caused by overwatering or poor drainage. Symptoms include yellowing leaves, wilting, and a foul smell.
- Spider mites: Small, red or yellow pests that can cause webbing and damage to the leaves.
- Scale: Small, oval-shaped pests that suck sap from the plant and can cause yellowing leaves and stunted growth.
Habitat
The Amorphophallus Consimilis is native to Southeast Asia, specifically in Thailand, Laos, and Vietnam. It grows in tropical forests and is found at elevations up to 1,500 meters above sea level.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Amorphophallus Consimilis be grown indoors?
A: Yes, it can be grown indoors as long as it receives bright, indirect light and is kept in a warm and humid environment.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Amorphophallus Consimilis?
A: Fertilize the plant every two weeks during the growing season.
Q: How often should I water my Amorphophallus Consimilis?
A: Water deeply once a week or when the top inch of soil feels dry.
Q: Is the Amorphophallus Consimilis toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is toxic to pets and can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and other symptoms if ingested.
Related Plants
- Amorphophallus bulbifer
- Amorphophallus konjac
- Amorphophallus titanum
- Amorphophallus paeoniifolius
References
- “Amorphophallus Consimilis.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a932.
- “Amorphophallus Consimilis.” World Checklist of Selected Plant Families, www.ipni.org/n/888640-1.
- “Amorphophallus Consimilis.” Plant Care Today, 12 July 2021, plantcaretoday.com/amorphophallus-consimilis.
