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Description
Amorphophallus Kiusianus, also known as the Voodoo Lily or Devil’s Tongue, is a striking perennial plant that belongs to the family Araceae. It is native to the Philippines and is a popular ornamental plant in many parts of the world. The plant is known for its unique and bizarre appearance, with a large, erect, and phallic-shaped inflorescence that emits a pungent odor resembling rotting flesh.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Alismatales |
| Family | Araceae |
| Genus | Amorphophallus |
Appearance
The Amorphophallus Kiusianus plant has a single leaf, which is large and deeply divided into leaflets. The leaf grows from an underground corm and can reach up to 60 cm in diameter. The inflorescence, which emerges from the center of the leaf, is composed of a spadix and a spathe. The spathe is green and has a marbled appearance, while the spadix is greenish-yellow and is covered in tiny flowers. The inflorescence can grow up to 1 meter tall and emits a strong odor that attracts pollinators.
Care Guide
Amorphophallus Kiusianus requires specific care to thrive. Here are some tips:
- Water: The plant prefers to be kept moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant when the soil feels dry to the touch.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining, rich soil. A mix of peat, perlite, and sand is ideal.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade, especially during the hottest hours of the day. Too much direct sunlight can scorch the leaves.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Amorphophallus Kiusianus is relatively pest-free, but it can be susceptible to fungal and bacterial diseases. Here are some common pests and diseases:
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can infest the plant and suck the sap from the leaves, causing them to turn yellow and die.
- Root rot: This fungal disease can occur if the soil is too wet or if the plant is overwatered. The leaves will turn yellow and the plant may wilt.
- Soft rot: This bacterial disease can cause the plant to rot and emit a foul odor. The leaves will turn yellow and the plant may wilt.
Habitat
Amorphophallus Kiusianus is native to the Philippines, where it grows in tropical forests and on rocky slopes. It prefers well-draining soil and a warm, humid climate.
Question and Answer
Q: Can I grow Amorphophallus Kiusianus indoors?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown indoors as long as it is kept in a warm and humid environment.
Q: How often should I water my Amorphophallus Kiusianus plant?
A: Water the plant when the soil feels dry to the touch, but be careful not to overwater it.
Q: Can I grow Amorphophallus Kiusianus in a container?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in a container as long as it is large enough to accommodate the corm and has good drainage.
Q: How do I propagate Amorphophallus Kiusianus?
A: The plant can be propagated by dividing the corm in the spring.
Related Plants
- Amorphophallus bulbifer
- Amorphophallus titanum
- Amorphophallus konjac
- Amorphophallus paeoniifolius
References
- “Amorphophallus Kiusianus.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 15 August 2021. <https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287747&isprofile=0&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=
- “Voodoo Lily, Amorphophallus Kiusianus.” Dave’s Garden. Accessed 15 August 2021. <https://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/146883/
- “Amorphophallus Kiusianus (Voodoo Lily).” Plant Care Today. Accessed 15 August 2021. <https://plantcaretoday.com/amorphophallus-kiusianus.html
