The Voodoo Lily (Amorphophallus konjac) has a striking appearance. Also called Devil’s Tongue, Elephant Yam, or Corpse Flower, this perennial plant is native to subtropical and tropical East Asia. It emerges from a large, subterranean tuber, and its dramatic, often malodorous, bloom is a distinctive plant.
Planting and Cultivation
Bulb Selection and Placement
Choose firm, round, flattened tubers, at least softball-sized; larger tubers flower sooner. Plant in spring once soil temperature is above 60°F (15.5°C). For outdoor planting, position the tuber 5 to 7 inches deep with the pointed end up. If in a container, choose a pot at least twice the tuber’s diameter and deep enough for top-heavy growth.
Light
Voodoo Lilies thrive in indirect light or partial shade. Direct, intense afternoon sun can scorch their foliage. Indoors, a spot with filtered light from a north or east-facing window is suitable.
Soil
Rich, organic soil with excellent drainage is preferred. For garden planting, amending clay soils with compost improves drainage and nutrient content. In containers, a potting mix works well; adding perlite or coarse sand enhances drainage.
Watering
Consistent moisture is key during the Voodoo Lily’s growing season. Keep soil evenly moist, not waterlogged, to prevent bulb rot. Allow soil surface to dry between waterings. Reduce watering as the plant approaches dormancy in late summer or fall.
Temperature and Humidity
Voodoo Lilies prefer warm temperatures (60-100.4°F / 15.5-38°C) and moderate to high humidity. They are hardy in USDA Zones 6 through 10. In colder regions, lift tubers or bring containers indoors to protect from freezing. In dry environments, misting foliage or using a pebble tray maintains humidity.
Fertilizing
These plants are heavy feeders during their growth phase. Regular fertilization supports development during the growing season. A fertilizer high in phosphate is recommended to promote healthy tuber growth, influencing plant size and bloom potential.
Understanding the Bloom Cycle
The Voodoo Lily’s bloom emerges before the foliage, in late winter or early spring. The inflorescence features a large, vase-shaped spathe (a modified leaf) surrounding a central, spear-shaped spadix. The spathe displays shades of dark maroon to purple-brown with ruffled margins, while the spadix reaches significant heights.
Its distinguishing feature is a notorious, pungent odor, resembling rotting flesh. This fragrance attracts pollinators like carrion beetles and blowflies. The scent is most intense during the initial 24 to 48 hours when female flowers are receptive, drawing pollinators. The bloom lasts only a few days.
Dormancy and Off-Season Care
The Voodoo Lily undergoes a dormant period from late summer or fall through winter. Foliage yellows, withers, and dies back during this phase. This signals the tuber’s rest period.
Reduce watering as foliage declines, stopping once leaves die back. In colder zones (below USDA Zone 7), or if storing, lift tubers after foliage withers. Store dormant tubers in a cool, dry, dark location (40-50°F / 5-10°C), without soil or in peat moss. If in a container, the tuber can remain in the pot if the soil dries completely.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Voodoo Lilies are resilient, though issues can arise. Lack of bloom is common, indicating an immature tuber or insufficient energy. Young plants may take three to five years to bloom, with larger tubers flowering sooner.
Pests are not a significant problem for Voodoo Lilies; their odor deters garden pests. However, spider mites or mealybugs can affect indoor plants. Organic insecticidal soaps or neem oil are effective.
Overwatering is a frequent cause of bulb rot. The tuber’s depressions collect excess water, fostering fungal growth. Proper drainage and allowing soil to dry between waterings are key preventative measures.
Leggy growth, or stretched stems, indicates insufficient light. Moving the plant to brighter, indirect light corrects this. All parts of the Voodoo Lily are toxic if ingested, particularly the tubers. Keep the plant out of reach of children and pets.