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Amorphophallus brevispathus Gagnep.

Introduction & Overview

Common and Scientific Names

  • Scientific Name: Amorphophallus brevispathus Gagnep.
  • Common Name: Occasionally referenced within the Amorphophallus genus

Quick Facts

  • Origin: Originates from Southeast Asia
  • Features:  Unusual flowering behavior, featuring a dark, compact spadix and eye-catching leaf structure

Taxonomy & Classification

  • Genus: Amorphophallus
  • Botanical Background: Has drawn interest among scientists studying tropical flowering mechanisms and aroid biodiversity; its discovery has contributed valuable insights into the diverse adaptations of tropical flora.

Natural Habitat & Distribution

  • Geographical Range: Native to tropical lowland and montane forests in Southeast Asia, with known occurrences in parts of Cambodia and Vietnam.
  • Environment:  Humid, shaded understory settings with well-draining, organic-rich soils and consistent, moderate to high rainfall; these conditions support its seasonal growth and rapid inflorescence development.

Morphological Characteristics

Leaves

  • Broadly arrow-shaped with a glossy texture
  • Deep green coloration
  • Offers striking contrast to the inflorescence

Inflorescence (Spadix & Spathe)

  • Dense, dark spadix encircled by a subtly colored spathe
  • Unique visual and scent cues

Growth Habit

  • Terrestrial species
  • Grows from an underground rhizome 

Cultivation & Care

Light Requirements

  • Bright, indirect light

Watering & Humidity

  • Regular watering is essential 
  • Maintain consistently moist soil
  • High humidity levels

Soil & Potting Mix

  • A well-draining, fertile potting mix enriched with organic matter
  • Containers should provide adequate drainage to prevent waterlogging

Temperature & Fertilizer

  • Temperatures ranging from 70°F to 85°F
  • A balanced liquid fertilizer applied during the active growing season 

Propagation Methods

Division and Stem Cuttings

  • Dividing the rhizome during the dormant phase
  • Each divided section should include viable buds

Seeds

  • Not commonly practiced, making vegetative propagation the preferred method

Common Pests & Diseases

Typical Issues

  • Aphids and mealybugs
  • Root rot 

Treatment Recommendations

  • Organic insecticidal soaps
  • Improved air circulation
  • Cautious watering practices

Notable Traits & Uses

  • Contributed to our understanding of tropical aroid diversity
  • Distinctive flowering event
  • Unique combination of dramatic inflorescence and lush foliage
  • A rare and desirable specimen in specialized collections and botanical gardens

Conservation & Availability

Wild Population Status

  • Not extensively documented
  • Habitat loss in parts of Southeast Asia raises potential conservation concerns

Market Availability

  • Not widely available
  • Found only in the collections of advanced hobbyists or botanical institutions

References & Resources

Further Reading

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