bulb corm tuber

Henry's Voodoo Lily

Amorphophallus henryi 'O'Henry'

The Story

Plant Bio

This plant features large, unique flowers that emit a strong odor, attracting specific pollinators.

A. henryi is a relatively compact species, making it more manageable for cultivation than its giant relatives. The inflorescence has a distinctive foul odor to attract carrion-feeding insects for pollination.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesProvides a dramatic and exotic focal point with its large, unique foliage and striking flower spike.
Practical UsesOffers a low-maintenance, drought-tolerant addition to shade gardens.
Ecological BenefitsSupports pollinators attracted to its unusual flowers and scent.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Bulb Corm Tuber

Height

48 inches

Width

36 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

8, 9, 10

Water

Moderate

Humidity

High

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Taiwan

Toxicity

Toxic if ingested; skin and eye irritant

Bloom period

Late spring – Early summer

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
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In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck tuberous roots in well-draining soil in early spring.
  2. Mist the soil surface regularly to keep it moist but not soggy.
  3. Plant in partial shade to avoid excessive heat stress during summer.
  4. Water consistently during active growth, reducing in winter.
  5. Fertilize monthly with a balanced fertilizer during growing season.
  6. Transplant carefully if moving to a new location, ideally in early spring.

Pro Tip

Use well-draining soil and provide partial shade for optimal growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water regularly during active growth 🌱
  • Fertilize monthly with a balanced fertilizer
  • Provide partial shade during hot summer days

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
  • Do not expose to direct, harsh sunlight in peak summer ❌
  • Avoid disturbing tubers during dormancy

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 garden borderExotic focal point in a shade gardenVanilla-scented garden bed

Companion Plants

Ferns Hostas Caladiums Elephant ears Ornamental grasses

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Henry's Voodoo Lily questions

What zones can Henry's Voodoo Lily grow in?

Henry's Voodoo Lily 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 Henry's Voodoo Lily deer resistant?

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

When does Henry's Voodoo Lily bloom?

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

Does Henry's Voodoo Lily need full sun?

Henry's Voodoo Lily does best in part shade.

Keep exploring

Grow Henry's Voodoo Lily 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.