Voodoo Lily (Amorphophallus konjac)

The Voodoo Lily, also known by its common names such as Devil’s Tongue, Snake Palm, and Leopard Palm, is a truly unique and captivating plant. Scientifically known as Amorphophallus titanum (although this name refers explicitly to the largest species, and there are many!), this botanical curiosity belongs to a genus full of fascinating, often bizarre, plants.

This guide will cover everything from the plant’s unusual life cycle and infamous odor to providing step-by-step instructions for successful cultivation and propagation. And we will touch the Voodoo lily fruit and Voodoo lily varieties. Keep reading to explore the captivating world of the Amorphophallus genus and unlock the secrets to growing these botanical wonders.

Understanding the Voodoo Lily: More Than Just a Stinky Spectacle

The “Voodoo Lily” designation is an umbrella term encompassing a range of Amorphophallus species, each possessing distinctive characteristics. While the enormous Amorphophallus titanum (the true “Corpse Flower”) garners significant attention, numerous smaller, equally captivating relatives exist. These plants are native to tropical and subtropical regions of Asia, Africa, and Australia, thriving in warm, humid environments. They are characterized by their unique growth cycle, involving a large, underground corm (a swollen stem base similar to a bulb or tuber), a single, often enormous, leaf, and, of course, the dramatic, often foul-smelling inflorescence.

Common name	Voodoo Lily, Devil’s Tongue, Snake Palm, Leopard Palm, Corpse Flower (when referring specifically to A. titanum)
Botanical name	Amorphophallus spp. (most commonly A. konjac, A. bulbifer, A. paeoniifolius, and the famous A. titanum)
Family	Araceae (Arum family)
Genus	Amorphophallus
Species	Varies (over 200 recognized species)
Origin	Tropical and subtropical regions of Asia, Africa, and Australia
Native	Varies by species
Life cycle	Perennial (from a corm)
Plant type	Cormous (growing from an underground corm, similar to a bulb)
Hardiness zone	Generally 9-11 (varies by species; most are not frost-tolerant)
Sunlight	Bright, indirect light; dappled shade
Maintenance	Varies by species; A. titanum is very high maintenance, while others like A. konjac are moderately low.
Water	Moderate during active growth; significantly reduced during dormancy
Drainage	Well-Drained (essential to prevent corm rot)
Spacing	Varies by species and pot size; provide ample room for root growth.
Flowering period	Typically spring or summer, but highly variable depending on species and corm maturity.
Height	Varies greatly; from less than 1 foot (30 cm) in some species to over 10 feet (3 meters) in A. titanum.
Growth rate	Moderate to fast during the active growing season; dormant period with no growth.
Flower color	Variable; often shades of maroon, purple, green, brown, or white. Spathe color is often distinct from spadix color.
Stem color	The “stem” is technically a petiole (leaf stalk) and can be green, brown, or mottled with various patterns.
Flower benefit	Unique, often dramatic inflorescence; attracts pollinators (carrion beetles and flies).
Garden style	Tropical Garden, Container Garden, Specimen Plant
Uses	Ornamental, Collector’s Item, Culinary (for A. konjac and A. paeoniifolius corms)
Soil pH	Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0-7.0)
Propagation	Division of offsets, leaf cuttings (in some species), seed (challenging)
Dormancy	Required; typically occurs after the leaf dies back.
Pests and Diseases	Generally pest-resistant; overwatering can lead to corm rot.
Toxicity	Some species contain calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause irritation if ingested or if sap comes into contact with skin.

The defining feature for many is the Voodoo lily smell. This pungent odor, reminiscent of rotting flesh, serves a crucial ecological purpose. It attracts carrion beetles and flies, the plant’s primary pollinators. These insects, lured by the scent, venture deep into the spathe (the large, sheath-like bract surrounding the flower spike) and spadix (the central column bearing the actual flowers), inadvertently transferring pollen between male and female flowers. This clever adaptation ensures the plant’s survival, even if it comes at the expense of our olfactory senses.

Beyond the smell, the Amorphophallus lifecycle is fascinating. The plant undergoes a period of dormancy, during which the corm rests underground. When conditions are favorable, the corm sends up a single, massive leaf, often intricately patterned and resembling a small tree. This leaf photosynthesizes, providing energy for the corm to grow. After a period of vegetative growth, which can vary from several months to years, the corm may produce an inflorescence. The timing of flowering is dependent on various factors, including the size of the corm, environmental conditions, and the specific species. Many species only bloom after several years of accumulating sufficient energy reserves.

The inflorescence itself is a marvel of botanical engineering. The spathe, often beautifully colored in shades of maroon, purple, green, or even white, unfurls to reveal the spadix. The spadix can be incredibly tall, sometimes exceeding several meters in A. titanum. The actual flowers are tiny and clustered at the base of the spadix, with male flowers positioned above female flowers. This arrangement promotes cross-pollination.

Let’s explore some of the key differences. The comparison of Voodoo lily vs corpse flower is a common query. While all “Corpse Flowers” are Voodoo Lilies (in the broader sense of belonging to the Amorphophallus genus), not all Voodoo Lilies are Corpse Flowers. The term “Corpse Flower” typically refers specifically to Amorphophallus titanum, the species with the world’s largest unbranched inflorescence. Other Amorphophallus species, while sharing similar characteristics, have smaller inflorescences and may not produce quite as potent an odor.

Many gardeners also seek Voodoo lily varieties information. The Amorphophallus genus is remarkably diverse, with over 200 recognized species. Some popular species for cultivation, besides A. titanum, include:

• Amorphophallus konjac: This species is cultivated for its edible corm, which is used to produce konjac flour, a popular ingredient in Asian cuisine (often used to create noodles and jellies).
• Amorphophallus bulbifer: This species is known for its pinkish spathe and the ability to produce bulbils (small, aerial corms) along its leaf petiole.
• Amorphophallus paeoniifolius: Also known as the Elephant Foot Yam, this species has an edible corm and a less intensely foul-smelling inflorescence.
• Amorphophallus rivieri:Another beautiful Voodoo Lily.

Characteristic	Amorphophallus titanum (Corpse Flower)	Amorphophallus konjac	Amorphophallus bulbifer	Amorphophallus paeoniifolius (Elephant Foot Yam)
Inflorescence Size	Largest unbranched inflorescence	Smaller	Smaller, pinkish spathe	Smaller, less intense odor
Corm Use	Not typically edible	Edible, used for konjac flour	Not typically edible	Edible corm
Bulbils	No	No	Yes	No
Odor Intensity	Extremely strong, rotting flesh	Strong, but less intense	Less intense	Less intense
Native Region	Sumatra, Indonesia	East and Southeast Asia	India, Southeast Asia	Southeast Asia, Pacific Islands
Cultivation Difficulty	Very Challenging	Moderately Easy	Moderately Easy	Moderately Easy
Average Bloom Frequency	Every 7-10 years (in cultivation)	More frequent	More frequent	More frequent
Mature Corm Size(Weight)	Up to 200 lbs or more	Up to 10 lbs	Up to 5 lbs	Up to 50 lbs or more

Growing Voodoo Lilies: A Step-by-Step Guide

Cultivating Voodoo Lilies can be a rewarding experience, even for the less common species. Here’s a detailed guide to help you succeed:

1. Choosing Your Corm:
   • Obtain your corm from a reputable supplier, such as those listed on Gardencenterpoint.com, to ensure it’s healthy and disease-free. Many suppliers offer Voodoo lily bulbs (technically corms) for sale online.
   • The size of the corm often indicates its maturity and potential for blooming. Larger corms are more likely to flower sooner.
   • Inspect the corm for any signs of rot or damage. It should be firm and free of soft spots.
2. Planting:
   • Timing: Plant your corm in the spring, after the last frost.
   • Potting Mix: Use a well-draining potting mix. A mix of peat moss, perlite, and orchid bark works well. Avoid heavy clay soils, which can lead to corm rot. A good ratio is 1:1:1.
   • Pot Size: Choose a pot that is significantly larger than the corm, allowing for ample root growth. For smaller species, a pot that’s twice the diameter of the corm is a good starting point. Larger species, like A. titanum, will eventually require very large containers.
   • Planting Depth: Plant the corm with the growing tip facing upwards. The top of the corm should be about 2-4 inches below the soil surface.
3. Watering:
   • Active Growth: During the active growing season (when the leaf is present), water regularly, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings.
   • Dormancy: During dormancy (when the plant has no leaf), significantly reduce watering. Water only sparingly, just enough to prevent the corm from completely drying out. Overwatering during dormancy is a common cause of corm rot.
4. Light:
   • Voodoo Lilies thrive in bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves. A location with dappled shade or morning sun is ideal.
5. Temperature:
   • These plants prefer warm temperatures, ideally between 70-80°F (21-27°C) during the growing season. They are not frost-tolerant and should be protected from temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
6. Humidity:
   • High humidity is beneficial, especially during the growing season. You can increase humidity by placing the pot on a tray filled with pebbles and water, or by using a humidifier.
7. Fertilizing:
   • During the active growing season, fertilize regularly with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer. A fertilizer with a ratio of 20-20-20 is suitable. Apply the fertilizer at half the recommended strength every 2-4 weeks. Do not fertilize during dormancy.
8. Dormancy Care:
   • After the leaf naturally dies back, the plant enters its dormant period. Reduce watering and stop fertilizing. Store the corm in its pot in a cool, dry place (around 60-65°F or 15-18°C) until new growth emerges in the spring.
9. Repotting
   • Repot every 2 years in the spring to a larger pot.

Troubleshooting Common Voodoo Lily Problems

Even with the best care, you may encounter some challenges. Here’s how to address common issues:

1. Lack of Blooming:
   • Corm Size: The most common reason for a Voodoo Lily not blooming is that the corm is not large enough. It may take several years for the corm to accumulate enough energy to produce an inflorescence. Be patient and continue providing proper care.
   • Insufficient Light: Ensure your plant is receiving adequate bright, indirect light.
   • Nutrient Deficiency: Fertilize regularly during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
   • Improper Dormancy: Ensure the plant experiences a proper dormant period with reduced watering and cooler temperatures.
2. Rotting Corm:
   • Overwatering: This is the most common cause of corm rot. Ensure the potting mix is well-draining and avoid overwatering, especially during dormancy.
   • Poor Drainage: Use a pot with drainage holes and a well-draining potting mix.
   • Fungal Infection: If you suspect a fungal infection, you can try treating the corm with a fungicide. However, severely rotted corms are often difficult to save.
3. Leaf Yellowing or Wilting:
   • Underwatering: Ensure the soil is consistently moist during the growing season.
   • Overwatering: While underwatering can cause wilting, overwatering can also lead to root rot and subsequent wilting.
   • Low Humidity: Increase humidity levels around the plant.
   • Nutrient Deficiency: Yellowing leaves can indicate a nutrient deficiency. Fertilize regularly.
4. Pests:
   • Voodoo Lilies are generally pest-resistant, but they can occasionally be affected by mealybugs, spider mites, or aphids. Inspect your plant regularly and treat any infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
5. Voodoo lily smell Control: There is very little that can contain the potent smell once the flower bloom.
   • Relocate it: Moving it outside can help.

Propagating Voodoo Lilies

Voodoo Lilies can be propagated through several methods:

1. Division of Offsets:
   • Mature corms may produce small offsets (baby corms) around the base. These offsets can be carefully separated from the parent corm during dormancy and planted individually.
2. Leaf Cuttings (Specific Species):
   • Some species, like Amorphophallus bulbifer, can be propagated from leaf cuttings. A section of the leaf petiole (the stalk that supports the leaf) can be planted in a well-draining potting mix, and it may eventually develop roots and a new corm.
3. Seed Propagation:
   • If you’re fortunate enough to have a flowering Voodoo Lily that produces Voodoo lily fruit (which contain seeds), you can try propagating it from seed. However, seed propagation can be challenging and time-consuming. The seeds need to be fresh and should be sown in a warm, humid environment. Germination can take several weeks or even months. And seed do not always come “true to seed”.

The Uses of Voodoo Lilies: Beyond Ornamentation

While many Voodoo Lilies are grown for their ornamental value, some species have practical uses:

1. Amorphophallus konjac and Konjac Flour:
   • As mentioned earlier, the corm of Amorphophallus konjac is used to produce konjac flour, a versatile ingredient in Asian cuisine. Konjac flour is high in glucomannan, a soluble fiber that has several health benefits. It’s often used as a thickening agent, a vegan gelatin substitute, and a dietary supplement for weight management.
   • Studies, such as those published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, have shown that glucomannan can help lower cholesterol levels, improve blood sugar control, and promote feelings of fullness.
2. Amorphophallus paeoniifolius (Elephant Foot Yam):
   • The corm of this species is a staple food in parts of Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands. It’s rich in carbohydrates and provides a good source of energy. It can be boiled, baked, or fried.
3. Traditional Medicine:
   • In some cultures, various Amorphophallus species have been used in traditional medicine to treat a range of ailments. However, it’s important to note that the safety and efficacy of these traditional uses have not been scientifically proven, and some Amorphophallus species can be toxic if ingested improperly.