Aroid (Amorphophallus raungense)

Product description

This Amorphophallus species was only recently discovered in Indonesia and does not yet have an official scientific name. It is likely to be named Amorphohallus raungense, but it is still awaiting publication. The species was discovered in the Lumajang region in eastern Java. This is extra special because, unfortunately, there has been a lot of logging in Java and many species are actually disappearing. However, due to the isolated location of the population, this species is not directly threatened and could therefore go unnoticed. These seeds come from cultivation, so the natural population can continue to be left alone.

The inflorescence consists of a dark purple spathe and a somewhat lighter spadix. Local botanists see similarities with the inflorescence of Amorphophallus borneensis, while the fruits resemble those of Amorphophallus spectabilis from western Java. The leaf has a spotted petiole and grows to about one and a half metres tall.

When growing as a houseplant, ensure a well-drained soil with organic matter. Once a year, the plant will go dormant, with no leaves visible temporarily. During this period, keep the soil slightly moist so that the underground tuber does not dry out. The plant will sprout again on its own, after which the soil can be kept a little damper again. In addition, make sure it has a light spot without direct sunlight.

Sowing description: The already germinated seed can be transferred directly into a well-drained soil mixture with organic matter. For initial development, a temperature of 25-30grC is optimal.