Typhonium laoticum Gagnep.

• Genus: Typhonium
• Botanical Background: The species was described by François Gagnepain, a French botanist known for extensive work on the flora of Southeast Asia in the early 20th century.

• Geographical Range:

  Native to Laos, with possible occurrence in adjacent regions of Thailand and Vietnam.

• Environment: Prefers shaded ground cover under trees or shrubs and thrives in seasonally dry tropical forests and monsoonal lowlands.

Leaves

• Arrow-shaped to sagittate, typically glossy green
• Medium-sized, ranging from 10–20 cm in length
• Emerge singly or in pairs from a central growing point

Inflorescence (Spadix & Spathe)

• Narrow, tubular spathe, often mottled or dark purplish
• Spadix is concealed within the spathe, with separate male and female zones
• Slight odor may be present, likely to attract fly pollinators

Growth Habit

• Terrestrial and tuberous, with a deciduous habit during dry seasons
• Dormant in winter or dry months, resprouting with moisture

Light Requirements

• Prefers partial to full shade
• Avoid direct, intense sunlight that can scorch leaves
• Can adapt to filtered light under forest-like settings

Watering & Humidity

• Requires consistent moisture during growth but dry rest in dormancy

• Tolerates lower humidity due to tuberous nature

Soil & Potting Mix

• A well-draining loose mix (bark chips, perlite, and peat or coco coir)
• Sandy or loamy substrates replicate its native soils
• Container culture should ensure no waterlogging
  

Temperature & Fertilizer

• Ideal range: 20–30°C during active growth
• Withhold feeding during dormancy
• Monthly balanced fertilizer during growth phase
  

Division

• Most commonly propagated via tuber division
• Tuber offsets form naturally at the base
  
• Separate during dormancy before replanting
  

Stem Cuttings (if applicable)

• Not applicable for this species

Seeds

• Rarely available or used for propagation
• Require warm temperatures and consistent moisture

Typical Issues

• Mealybugs or aphids
• Tuber rot from overwatering is a common issue
• Ensure airflow and avoid soggy conditions
  

Treatment Recommendations

• Neem oil or insecticidal soap for soft-bodied insects
• Use sterile soil and dry storage during dormancy
• Remove infected tubers and use fungicide if needed
  

• Likely plays a role in forest floor ecology through seasonal dormancy
• Rarely documented in cultivation, contributing to its botanical interest

• Appeals to collectors of obscure Aroids or tuberous species
• Suited for woodland-style container gardens

Wild Population Status

• Not formally assessed for conservation status

Market Availability

• Occasionally offered by specialty growers or botanical collections
• Rare in the horticultural trade