The Story
Plant Bio
Amorphophallus bulbifer, commonly known as the Elephant Foot Yam, is a tuberous perennial with large, palmate leaves and a distinctive, tall inflorescence that emits a strong odor, often with variegated markings.
The 'Racing Stripes' cultivar is distinguished by its striking petiole (leaf stalk) which is patterned with green and white stripes.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
36 inches
Width
30 inches
Light
Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
8, 9, 10
Water
Moderate
Humidity
High
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Southeast Asia
Toxicity
Toxic if ingested; can cause skin and eye irritation.
Bloom period
Mid-summer – Late summer
In flower about 2 months of the year
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck rhizomes 2 inches deep in well-draining soil.
- Water regularly to keep soil moist but not soggy.
- Place in partial shade for optimal growth.
- Fertilize monthly with balanced fertilizer during active season.
- Mulch around the base to retain moisture and regulate temperature.
- Monitor for pests and diseases, treat as needed.
Pro Tip
Ensure well-draining soil and provide partial shade for best growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water consistently during the growing season 🌱
- Apply balanced fertilizer monthly
- Mulch to retain soil moisture
Don't
- Overwater to prevent rot ❌
- Expose to full sun, which can stress the plant
- Neglect pest monitoring
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Lift Store | ||||||||||||
| Plant |
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
Racing Stripes Amorphophallus questions
What zones can Racing Stripes Amorphophallus grow in?
Racing Stripes Amorphophallus 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 Racing Stripes Amorphophallus deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Racing Stripes Amorphophallus, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Racing Stripes Amorphophallus bloom?
Racing Stripes Amorphophallus typically blooms in mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Racing Stripes Amorphophallus need full sun?
Racing Stripes Amorphophallus does best in part shade.
More Amorphophallus to compare

Konjac Voodoo Lily
Amorphophallus konjac

Voodoo Lily
Amorphophallus bulbifer

Yulo Amorphophallus
Amorphophallus yuloensis 'PDN 1'

Pinto Voodoo Lily
Amorphophallus konjac 'Pinto'

Korat Amorphophallus
Amorphophallus koratensis 'Green Stem Form'

Koratensis Amorphophallus
Amorphophallus koratensis 'Dark Stem Form'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Racing Stripes Amorphophallus 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.


