bulb corm tuber

Ferruginous Voodoo Lily

The Story

Plant Bio

Amorphophallus ferruginosus is a tropical perennial known for its large, dramatic, and often umbrella-like foliage, along with a solitary, striking inflorescence that emits a strong odor to attract pollinators.

This species is distinguished by its rusty, reddish-brown, or ferruginous coloration on the spathe, adding a unique visual element to its otherwise exotic appearance.

Uses & Benefits:

Adds a striking and exotic touch to shade and tropical gardens, especially with its large, dramatic inflorescence.

Drought tolerant once established, with minimal maintenance requirements.

Provides habitat and attracts beneficial insects in shaded garden areas.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Bulb Corm Tuber

Height

24 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Moderate to high

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Southeast Asia

Toxicity

Toxic if ingested

Bloom period

Spring – Late fall

In flower about 8 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck corms 4 inches deep in well-draining soil.
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not soggy.
Mist foliage during dry periods for humidity.
Place in partial shade to protect from harsh sun.
Mulch around the plant to retain moisture.
Apply a balanced fertilizer monthly during active growth.

Pro Tip

Plant corms in well-draining soil and provide partial shade for best results.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water consistently during the growing season 💧
Apply balanced fertilizer monthly 🌱
Mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds

Don't

Overwater to prevent rot ❌
Expose to full sun which can scorch leaves ❌
Neglect mulching or fertilizing ❌

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Deadhead
Fertilize
Lift Store
Plant
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Tropical-themed borderShade garden focal pointDrought-tolerant planting bed

Companion Plants

Ferns Hostas Caladiums Elephant Ears Banana plants

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Ferruginous Voodoo Lily questions

What zones can Ferruginous Voodoo Lily grow in?

Ferruginous Voodoo Lily is hardy in USDA Zone 10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Ferruginous Voodoo Lily deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Ferruginous Voodoo Lily, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Ferruginous Voodoo Lily bloom?

Ferruginous Voodoo Lily typically blooms in spring through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Ferruginous Voodoo Lily need full sun?

Ferruginous Voodoo Lily does best in part shade.