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Amorphophallus glaucophyllus Hett. & Serebryanyi

Introduction & Overview

Common and Scientific Names

  • Scientific Name: Amorphophallus glaucophyllus Hett. & Serebryanyi
  • Common Name: Blue-leafed Titan Arum

Quick Facts

  • Origin: Native to Southeast Asia, particularly regions of Borneo
  • Features: Stands out with its large, glaucous green leaves that give the plant a striking, unique appearance; it is part of the Amorphophallus genus, known for other giant species like the Titan Arum

Taxonomy & Classification

  • Genus: Amorphophallus
  • Botanical Background: Described by Hett. & Serebryanyi; the genus Amorphophallus is studied for its unique inflorescences and its ability to survive in challenging environmental conditions, which has attracted the attention of botanists and horticulturists worldwide.

Natural Habitat & Distribution

  • Geographical Range: Native to Borneo, primarily found in tropical rainforests at lower altitudes.
  • Environment: Warm, humid environments with rich, well-draining soils; it prefers shaded areas with indirect light and moderate moisture levels, mimicking its native rainforest habitat.

Morphological Characteristics

Leaves

  • Large, compound, and characterized by a striking glaucous green coloration, giving them a bluish tint
  • Leaflets are broad and arranged in a palmate pattern

Inflorescence (Spadix & Spathe)

  • Large, with a deep purple spathe and spadix
  • Scent is similar to that of other Amorphophallus species, often compared to decaying flesh

Growth Habit

  • Terrestrial, growing from a tuber
  • Has a short-growing season, typically sprouting and flowering during the wet season before going dormant

Cultivation & Care

Light Requirements

  • Best grown in bright, indirect light
  • Can tolerate some direct sunlight but thrives in shaded or partially shaded environments

Watering & Humidity

  • Requires consistently moist soil, though it should not sit in standing water
  • High humidity is essential, ideally between 60-80%

Soil & Potting Mix

  • A well-draining mix, such as a blend of peat, perlite, and pine bark, works well 
  • The soil should remain moist but not soggy

Temperature & Fertilizer

  • Prefers temperatures between 22–28°C (72–82°F) 
  • A balanced liquid fertilizer monthly

Propagation Methods

Division and Stem Cuttings

  • Division of the tuber
  • Most common method of propagation for Amorphophallus species

Seeds

  • Not commonly used due to the difficulty of maintaining ideal conditions
  • Require warm conditions to germinate

Common Pests & Diseases

Typical Issues

  • Aphids, scale, and mealybugs
  • Root rot

Treatment Recommendations

  • Organic insecticidal soap or neem oil 
  • Ensure the plant is in well-drained soil
  • Fungicides may be necessary for severe fungal infections

Notable Traits & Uses

  • Relatively rare in cultivation and is prized for its unusual foliage
  • Play a role in the local ecosystem by attracting carrion-feeding insects
  • Valued for its unique, bluish-green leaves, making it a striking addition to any tropical or aroid collection
  • Inflorescence, though stinky, is a conversation starter in botanical gardens

Conservation & Availability

Wild Population Status

  • No major conservation concerns
  • Habitat loss could potentially affect its population

Market Availability

  • Not widely available in commercial markets and is considered rare in cultivation
  • Availability is often limited to specialized collectors

References & Resources

Further Reading

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