Species
Amorphophallus bulbiferVoodoo Lily1 other cultivar
The Story
Plant Bio
Amorphophallus bulbifer, commonly known as the Voodoo Lily, is a tuberous perennial from the Himalayas and India. It is noted for producing a single, large, dissected leaf atop a mottled petiole (leaf stalk). Before the leaf emerges, a foul-smelling, pinkish-white spathe and spadix inflorescence appears. A key feature is the production of small bulbils on the leaf surface, which can be used for propagation.
The cultivar 'Patches' is notable for its heavily mottled petiole (leaf stalk), which has a camouflage-like pattern of green and tan. This supports the large, single, dissected leaf. It readily produces bulbils on the leaf surface for propagation.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
42 inches
Width
30 inches
Light
Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
8, 9, 10
Water
Moderate
Humidity
High
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
India, Himalayas
Toxicity
Toxic if ingested, skin irritation possible
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck bulbs 4 inches deep in well-draining soil
- Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged
- Mist foliage during dry periods for humidity
- Place in partial shade for optimal growth
- Mulch to retain moisture and regulate temperature
- Transplant in early spring after last frost
Pro Tip
Ensure well-draining soil to prevent bulb rot and provide partial shade for best results.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water consistently during active growth 🌱
- Mulch to retain soil moisture
- Provide partial shade in hot climates
- Fertilize with balanced fertilizer in spring
Don't
- Avoid overwatering, which can rot bulbs ❌
- Do not expose to full sun in hot climates
- Refrain from disturbing bulbs during dormancy
- Never use heavy clay soil without amendment
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Lift Store | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Propagate | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup | ||||||||||||
| Winter Prep |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Voodoo Lily 'Patches' questions
What zones can Voodoo Lily 'Patches' grow in?
Voodoo Lily 'Patches' is hardy in USDA Zones 8–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Voodoo Lily 'Patches' deer resistant?
Yes — Voodoo Lily 'Patches' is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Voodoo Lily 'Patches' bloom?
Voodoo Lily 'Patches' typically blooms in late spring to early summer through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Voodoo Lily 'Patches' need full sun?
Voodoo Lily 'Patches' does best in part shade.
More Amorphophallus to compare
Konjac Voodoo Lily
Amorphophallus konjac
Voodoo Lily
Amorphophallus bulbifer
Yulo Amorphophallus
Amorphophallus yuloensis 'PDN 1'
Pinto Voodoo Lily
Amorphophallus konjac 'Pinto'
Korat Amorphophallus
Amorphophallus koratensis 'Green Stem Form'
Koratensis Amorphophallus
Amorphophallus koratensis 'Dark Stem Form'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Voodoo Lily 'Patches' with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.