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Description
Helicodiceros is a genus of flowering plants in the Araceae family. It is native to the western Mediterranean region and is commonly known as the “stinky flower” due to its strong odor. This plant is also known as the dead horse arum or the Italian lords-and-ladies. The plant has a unique pollination mechanism that involves attracting flies and beetles with its putrid smell.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Alismatales |
| Family | Araceae |
| Genus | Helicodiceros |
Appearance
The Helicodiceros plant has a striking appearance with its large, dark green leaves that are shaped like an arrowhead. The plant can grow up to 1.5 meters tall and produces a large inflorescence that can reach up to 30 cm in height. The inflorescence consists of a fleshy, cone-shaped spadix that is surrounded by a hood-like spathe. The spathe is usually purple or brown in color with white or green stripes. The spadix emits a strong odor that attracts flies and beetles for pollination.
Care Guide
Helicodiceros requires a lot of care and attention to thrive. Here are some tips for taking care of this plant:- Water: Helicodiceros prefers moist soil, so it should be watered regularly. However, it is important not to overwater the plant as this can cause root rot.- Fertilization: The plant should be fertilized once a month during the growing season using a balanced fertilizer.- Soil: Helicodiceros prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full shade and should be protected from direct sunlight.- Hardiness Zones: Helicodiceros is hardy in zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Helicodiceros is susceptible to a range of pests and diseases, including spider mites, mealybugs, and fungal infections. To prevent these problems, it is important to keep the plant clean and well-ventilated. Infected plants should be treated with an appropriate pesticide or fungicide.
Habitat
Helicodiceros is native to the western Mediterranean region, including Spain, Italy, and North Africa. It grows in damp, shaded areas such as woodland floors and riverbanks.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Helicodiceros a rare plant?
A: Yes, Helicodiceros is considered a rare plant due to its limited distribution in the wild.
Q: How often should I water Helicodiceros?
A: Helicodiceros prefers moist soil, so it should be watered regularly. However, it is important not to overwater the plant as this can cause root rot.
Q: Does Helicodiceros attract any other insects besides flies and beetles?
A: No, Helicodiceros primarily attracts flies and beetles for pollination.
Q: Can Helicodiceros be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Helicodiceros can be grown indoors as long as it is provided with adequate light and humidity.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Helicodiceros:- Arum italicum- Arisaema triphyllum- Dracunculus vulgaris- Sauromatum venosum
References
– “Helicodiceros muscivorus.” ARS-GRIN Taxonomy for Plants. USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program. Retrieved from https://npgsweb.ars-grin.gov/gringlobal/taxon/taxonomysearch.aspx.- “Helicodiceros muscivorus.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Retrieved from http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a242.
