Family: Araceae
Scientific name: Amorphophallus lambii
Common name: Arum calyx
Origin: Borneo

A rare Amorphophallus species with populations in the south and north of Borneo. There the species grows in the lowland rainforest, especially near streams and rivers. The plant grows with one leaf at a time from an underground tuber, with the leaf and tuber growing larger and larger. The leaf grows umbrella-shaped and has an ornamental, spotted petiole. Once the tuber has stored enough energy (after at least 5 years), the plant can bloom with a large inflorescence. The bract is green on the outside and purple on the inside. The spadix in the center varies in color. With an unpleasant odor, carrion insects are attracted for pollination of the flowers. 

When a leaf dies without a new leaf appearing, the plant goes dormant. During this period, you can water slightly less, but do not let the soil dry out. In the growth phase, you can keep the soil constantly moist, where it is important not to keep it too dry or wet. A light soil mixture of bark, Sphagnum, coconut fiber and perlite are suitable for this purpose and additional houseplant nutrition can be given during the growth. Provide a light spot without direct sunlight. And a temperature of 20-25 degrees Celsius. 

The species is named after Anthony Lamb, an English botanist who has done much research into the flora of northern Borneo.  

Description: Sow in an airy mixture of e.g. Sphagnum-moss and coconut fiber. Keep the mixture slightly moist and let it germinate at 25-30 degrees Celsius. 

Sowing period: Whole year
Difficulty: Intermediate
Minimum temperature: 15 degrees Celsius