perennial

Racing Stripes Amorphophallus

Amorphophallus bulbifer 'Racing Stripes'

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:

Ornamental UsesCreates a dramatic tropical display with large, striped foliage that adds exotic appeal to gardens.
Practical UsesProvides a unique conversation piece and attracts pollinators like beetles and flies.
Ecological BenefitsSupports local pollinator species and adds biodiversity to garden ecosystems.
SpeciesAmorphophallus bulbiferVoodoo Lily

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

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In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck rhizomes 2 inches deep in well-draining soil.
  2. Water regularly to keep soil moist but not soggy.
  3. Place in partial shade for optimal growth.
  4. Fertilize monthly with balanced fertilizer during active season.
  5. Mulch around the base to retain moisture and regulate temperature.
  6. 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

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 focal point

Companion Plants

Ferns Hostas Caladiums Banana plants Elephant ears

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.

Keep exploring

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.