Giant Voodoo Lily
Sauromatum giganteum
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
36 inches
Width
24 inches
Light
Partial Sun
Zones
7, 8, 9
Water
Moist but well-drained
Humidity
Moderate to high
Lifespan
Perennial in suitable zones
Native To
Southeastern Asia
Toxicity
All parts are toxic if ingested
The Story
Plant Bio
Sauromatum giganteum is a perennial herbaceous plant featuring large, arrow-shaped leaves and a striking inflorescence with a spadix and spathe, typically producing dramatic, hooded flower structures with a distinctive odor. This species is notable for its impressive size and the ability to emit a strong, unpleasant scent to attract pollinators, making it a standout in tropical and subtropical plant collections.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck tuber in well-draining soil in spring
- Water consistently to keep soil moist but not waterlogged
- Mist leaves during dry periods for humidity
- Place in full sun for best flowering
- Mulch lightly to retain moisture and regulate temperature
- Allow foliage to die back naturally after flowering
Pro Tip
Plant tubers in spring after the last frost for best growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly during active growth 🌱
- Provide full sun for optimal flowering
- Mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds
- Allow leaves to die back naturally after flowering
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent rot ❌
- Do not disturb tubers during dormancy
- Refrain from fertilizing during dormancy
- Do not plant in poorly drained soil
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
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
Giant Voodoo Lily questions
What zones can Giant Voodoo Lily grow in?
Giant Voodoo Lily is hardy in USDA Zones 7–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Giant Voodoo Lily deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Giant Voodoo Lily, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Giant Voodoo Lily bloom?
Giant Voodoo Lily typically blooms in early summer through mid-summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Giant Voodoo Lily need full sun?
Giant Voodoo Lily does best in part shade.
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See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
