Amorphophallus konjac

konjac

◆

Taxonomy

Common Names

konjacelephant yamdevil's tonguevoodoo lily

Context

nativeRegion

Southeast Asia, particularly subtropical and tropical areas of China, Japan, and Indonesia.

usdaZones

7–10, grown as an annual or container plant in cooler zones.

companionPlants

Alocasia, Colocasia, Caladium

culturalUses

Cultivated for its edible corms (used to make konnyaku in Japanese cuisine); ornamental and curiosity due to unique bloom.

Care

LightBright indirect light or partial shade; avoid direct, scorching sunlight.

WateringKeep soil consistently moist during active growth, but allow to dry slightly between waterings when dormant.

SoilRich, well-draining, humus-rich soil; a blend of loam, compost, and grit/sand works well.

FertilizerFeed monthly with a balanced liquid fertilizer during the growing season.

HumidityPrefers moderate to high humidity but tolerates average indoor conditions.

TemperatureThrives in 18–30°C (65–86°F); protect from frost and temperatures below 10°C (50°F).

HabitHerbaceous perennial with a single large leaf and a dramatic inflorescence from a corm.

Mature SizeUp to 1.5 m (5 ft) tall when in leaf or bloom.

Growth RateModerate growth during spring and summer; rapid emergence in spring.

BloomingFlowers once per year or less, typically in late spring; bloom is large, fleshy, and strongly scented.

DormancyDormant in winter; corm should be kept dry until new growth resumes.

MethodsCorm offsets, Seed

DifficultyEasy by corm division; seeds less common and slower.

Best SeasonLate winter to early spring when corms are dormant.

PruningRemove spent flowers and damaged foliage as needed.

RepottingRepot corms annually or when crowded, before start of active growth.

Pests & DiseasesGenerally pest-free but may attract aphids, mealybugs, or root rot if overwatered.

ToxicityCorms and plant parts are toxic if ingested raw; may cause skin irritation.

No public plants yet.