Amorphophallus titanum (Becc.) Becc.

• Genus: Amorphophallus 
• Botanical Background: First described by Odoardo Beccari in 1878. Beccari, an Italian botanist, first encountered the plant during his exploration of Sumatra. The species is renowned for its extreme size and infrequent blooming.

• Geographical Range: Native to the rainforests of Sumatra, Indonesia, where it grows at lower altitudes in tropical, humid conditions
• Environment: Thrives in tropical rainforest environments, preferring well-drained, fertile soils with high organic matter; it grows under the dense canopy and benefits from high humidity, moderate temperatures, and a consistent water supply.

Leaves

• Large, divided into many leaflets, and can reach up to 3 meters in height
• They are a deep green and have a glossy texture, forming a striking contrast to the flower's bloom when the plant is not in flower

Inflorescence (Spadix & Spathe)

• The spadix, which can reach up to 3 meters, is encased in a reddish-brown spathe
• Characterized by its foul odor, which mimics decaying flesh, attracting pollinators like carrion beetles and flies
• Pollination occurs primarily at night

Growth Habit

• A terrestrial plant with a large tuber from which the flower emerges
• Typically remains dormant for several months each year, during which it regrows from its tuber

Light Requirements

• Prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate some shade, mimicking its natural rainforest habitat where it grows under tree canopies

Watering & Humidity

• Requires consistent moisture, with a preference for high humidity levels (60-80%)
• Regular watering is crucial, but overwatering can cause root rot

Soil & Potting Mix

• A well-draining, loamy, and slightly acidic potting mix is ideal
• A mixture of peat, perlite, and pine bark works well for container cultivation
  

Temperature & Fertilizer

• Prefers warm temperatures, ideally between 25-30°C (77-86°F)
• Balanced fertilizer to encourage robust growth

Division and Stem Cuttings

• Primarily done through division of the tuber
• Should be done during the plant’s dormancy phase to avoid damaging the growing points

Seeds

• Require a warm, humid environment for germination; may take a long time to mature and can be challenging to grow in non-native conditions

Typical Issues

• Aphids, scale insects, and spider mites
• Root rot can occur with overwatering, and fungal infections may affect the tuber

Treatment Recommendations

• For pest issues, regularly inspect the plant and treat with organic insecticides
• Ensure good drainage and avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot
• For fungal diseases, use fungicides and remove affected parts of the plant

• Famous for its massive size and the notorious odor emitted during flowering, which is thought to attract pollinators that feed on decaying organic matter
• Has become a popular attraction in botanical gardens worldwide

• Highly prized by enthusiasts due to its size, rarity, and unique blooming event
• Enormous inflorescence and striking leaves make it a captivating addition to any large greenhouse or conservatory

Wild Population Status

• Not currently classified as endangered, Amorphophallus titanum is considered vulnerable due to habitat destruction and limited distribution in the wild
• Conservation efforts focus on protecting its native rainforest habitat

Market Availability

• Rare in the ornamental plant market due to its specific growth requirements and the difficulty of cultivating it
• Mostly found in botanical gardens and specialized collections