Amorphophallus titanum

Titan arum

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Taxonomy

Description

Amorphophallus titanum, the titan arum or corpse flower, is famed for the world's largest unbranched inflorescence and its infamous odor. A dramatic, once-in-years bloomer, it grows from a giant corm and demands warm, humid, greenhouse-like care.

Common Names

Titan arumCorpse flowerBunga bangkai

Context

nativeRegion

Lower montane rainforests of western Sumatra, Indonesia.

usdaZones

Outdoors only in USDA 12-13; otherwise grown in greenhouses or conservatories.

companionPlants

Anthurium species, Philodendron species, Alocasia, Ferns, Caladium

culturalUses

Showpiece of botanic gardens for conservation education, research, and public bloom events; a symbol of Sumatran biodiversity.

Care

Care Requirements

LightBright, indirect light or dappled shade; avoid harsh midday sun.

WateringDuring active leaf growth, keep evenly moist but never waterlogged. In dormancy, reduce to occasional sips to prevent the medium from drying out completely.

SoilVery fast-draining, rich mix: chunky bark, perlite or pumice, coarse sand, and organic matter; slightly acidic to neutral pH.

FertilizerHeavy feeder in growth: balanced or high-nitrogen liquid at half strength every 1-2 weeks; shift to higher potassium late season. None in dormancy.

HumidityHigh (60-80%+), with strong air circulation to prevent fungal issues.

TemperatureWarm year-round: 75-85°F (24-29°C) days, 65-75°F (18-24°C) nights; never below 55°F (13°C).

Growth & Life Cycle

HabitTuberous geophyte producing a single, tree-like leaf for months, then occasionally a massive, unbranched inflorescence.

Mature SizeLeaf to 10-20 ft tall with 6-16 ft spread; inflorescence 6-10+ ft tall; corm can exceed 100 lb (45 kg).

Growth RateSlow to moderate vegetative growth; requires several years to decades to reach blooming size.

BloomingHighly infrequent, often every 3-10+ years. Bloom lasts 24-48 hours with heat and a carrion scent to attract pollinators.

DormancyAfter the leaf dies back, the plant rests as a corm for weeks to months before the next growth cycle.

Propagation

MethodsFresh seed, Corm division or offsets (rare), Tissue culture (specialist)

DifficultyVery high

Best SeasonSpring to early summer for sowing; divide and repot during dormancy late winter to early spring.

Maintenance & Notes

PruningRemove the collapsed leaf or spent inflorescence only after it withers; use sterile tools.

RepottingRepot during dormancy, annually or when the corm outgrows its pot. Use a deep, heavy container with excellent drainage.

Pests & DiseasesRoot and corm rot from excess moisture; fungal leaf spots in stagnant air. Pests include spider mites, mealybugs, aphids, fungus gnats, and snails/slugs.

ToxicityIrritant/toxic if ingested; sap may cause skin irritation due to calcium oxalates. Keep away from pets and children.

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