Amorphophallus decus-silvae

Decus-silvae corpse flower

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Taxonomy

Description

Amorphophallus decus-silvae is a striking, collector-loved aroid from Java. It grows a single, umbrella-like leaf from a hefty tuber, then occasionally produces a dramatic, dark spathe and spadix with a brief carrion scent to attract pollinators. Easy to admire but finicky about warmth, drainage, and a dry dormancy.

Common Names

Decus-silvae corpse flowerJava corpse flowerStink lilyOrnament of the forest aroid

Context

nativeRegion

Java, Indonesia (lowland to foothill rainforest understory).

usdaZones

11–12 outdoors; commonly grown in containers elsewhere.

companionPlants

Anthurium, Philodendron, Monstera, Alocasia, Ferns (Asplenium, Microsorum), Begonia, Gingers (Alpinia), Homalomena

culturalUses

Ornamental curiosity in botanical collections and private aroid gardens; used for education on pollination biology and carrion-mimic blooms.

Care

Care Requirements

LightBright, filtered light or dappled shade; protect from harsh midday sun.

WateringKeep evenly moist during active growth; never waterlog. When the leaf yellows and dies back, keep the tuber almost dry until the next sprout.

SoilVery fast-draining, chunky aroid mix (bark, perlite/pumice, coarse peat/compost, charcoal). Slightly acidic to neutral (pH ~6–7).

FertilizerHeavy feeder in season: balanced liquid at 1/4–1/2 strength every 2–3 weeks, or slow-release prills; stop during dormancy.

HumidityPrefers 60–80% but tolerates 50% with good watering and airflow.

TemperatureWarmth-loving: 70–90°F (21–32°C) in growth; protect below 60°F (15°C) and from any frost.

Growth & Life Cycle

HabitGeophytic aroid with a single, umbrella-like leaf on a mottled petiole; produces a large spathe and spadix when mature.

Mature SizeLeaf to 4–8 ft tall and wide (1.2–2.5 m); inflorescence up to ~4–6 ft (1.2–1.8 m) when well grown.

Growth RateModerate to fast during the growing season; tuber enlarges annually.

BloomingIrregular, when tuber is large enough; dark maroon spathe with strong carrion odor for 1–2 days, followed by a short bloom period.

DormancyDry dormancy after the leaf senesces; tuber rests in nearly dry medium until the next shoot emerges.

Propagation

MethodsTuber offsets/division, Seed (hand or cross-pollinated), Tissue culture (specialist)

DifficultyModerate to challenging (flowering and seed set require size and controlled conditions).

Best SeasonLate winter to spring as growth begins for divisions; warm season for seed.

Maintenance & Notes

PruningNo shaping needed. Remove the spent leaf or inflorescence cleanly at the base; sanitize tools.

RepottingRepot at the start of new growth or just after dormancy. Choose a pot 5–10 cm wider than the tuber; plant with several cm of mix above the tuber; excellent drainage is essential.

Pests & DiseasesMealybugs, scale, spider mites, thrips, and fungus gnats; tuber/root rot if overwatered; occasional fungal leaf spots. Ensure airflow and sterile, fast-draining mix.

ToxicityToxic/irritant if ingested; sap contains calcium oxalate crystals that can irritate skin and mouth. Keep away from pets and children.

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