perennial

Voodoo Lily Amorphophallus tenuispadix

Amorphophallus tenuispadix 'PDN 3'

The Story

Plant Bio

Amorphophallus tenuispadix, known for its large, tropical, and herbaceous form, features broad, palmate leaves and produces a striking inflorescence with a deep purple spadix and a large, often mottled spathe that emits a distinctive odor.

The cultivar PDN 3 is distinguished by its particularly robust growth and enhanced flower size, making it a standout specimen in tropical and subtropical gardens.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesProvides exotic visual interest with its large leaves and unique flower structure, perfect for shaded or tropical-themed gardens.
Practical UsesRequires minimal maintenance once established, with drought tolerance and low nutrient needs.
Ecological BenefitsSupports pollinators attracted to its inflorescence scent and structure.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

36 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate

Humidity

High

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Tropical Asia

Toxicity

Yes

Bloom period

Late spring – Late fall

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D

In flower about 7 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck bulbs 4 inches deep in well-draining soil
  2. Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity
  3. Plant in partial shade for best growth
  4. Water consistently but avoid waterlogging
  5. Fertilize monthly during active growth
  6. Mulch around base to retain moisture

Pro Tip

Ensure soil drains well to prevent bulb rot and maintain humidity for healthy growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water regularly during growing season 💧
  • Apply balanced fertilizer monthly
  • Mulch to retain soil moisture
  • Provide partial shade in hot climates

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering to prevent bulb rot ❌
  • Do not expose to full sun in hot regions
  • Avoid disturbing bulbs during dormancy
  • Do not ignore pest signs

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Fertilize
Mulch
Plant
Propagate
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Moody tropical borderUnique focal point in shady gardens

Companion Plants

Ferns Hostas ColocasiaCaladiums

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Voodoo Lily Amorphophallus tenuispadix questions

What zones can Voodoo Lily Amorphophallus tenuispadix grow in?

Voodoo Lily Amorphophallus tenuispadix is hardy in USDA Zones 7–9. 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 Amorphophallus tenuispadix deer resistant?

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

When does Voodoo Lily Amorphophallus tenuispadix bloom?

Voodoo Lily Amorphophallus tenuispadix typically blooms in late spring 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 Amorphophallus tenuispadix need full sun?

Voodoo Lily Amorphophallus tenuispadix does best in part shade.

Keep exploring

Grow Voodoo Lily Amorphophallus tenuispadix 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.