Amorphophallus laoticus 'Silver Center'
perennial

Laotian Amorphophallus Silver Center

Amorphophallus laoticus 'Silver Center'

The Story

Plant Bio

Amorphophallus laoticus, known for its large, tropical-looking leaves and distinctive flower spike, produces a striking inflorescence with a broad spadix and a contrasting spathe, typically in shades of purple or brown.

This cultivar, Silver Center, is distinguished by its unique silver or pale-colored central spadix that creates a dramatic focal point within the otherwise dark or mottled spathe.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesProvides dramatic, tropical foliage that adds exotic appeal to gardens.
Practical UsesRequires minimal maintenance once established, thriving in shaded areas.
Ecological BenefitsSupports pollinators attracted to its fragrant flowers at night.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

36 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

10

Water

Moderate

Humidity

High

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Laos and Southeast Asia

Toxicity

Toxic if ingested

Bloom period

Spring – Late fall

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

In flower about 8 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck tubers in well-draining soil in spring
  2. Mist foliage regularly during growing season
  3. Keep soil moist but not waterlogged for 6 weeks during active growth
  4. Provide filtered light or partial shade
  5. Mulch to retain soil moisture and regulate temperature
  6. Transplant carefully if dividing mature tubers

Pro Tip

Plant tubers in well-draining soil with organic matter for best growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water consistently during active growth 🌱
  • Apply balanced fertilizer monthly in spring and summer
  • Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering in winter ❌
  • Do not expose to full sun, which can scorch leaves
  • Refrain from disturbing dormant tubers unnecessarily

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Fertilize
Lift Store
Plant

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Tropical-themed borderExotic container display

Companion Plants

Ferns Hostas Caladiums

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Laotian Amorphophallus Silver Center questions

What zones can Laotian Amorphophallus Silver Center grow in?

Laotian Amorphophallus Silver Center 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 Laotian Amorphophallus Silver Center deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Laotian Amorphophallus Silver Center, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Laotian Amorphophallus Silver Center bloom?

Laotian Amorphophallus Silver Center 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 Laotian Amorphophallus Silver Center need full sun?

Laotian Amorphophallus Silver Center does best in part shade.

Keep exploring

Hardy in your zone?

Grow Laotian Amorphophallus Silver Center 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.