Amorphophallus lacourii
Amorphophallus lacourii is a unique and visually striking tuberous plant, belonging to the Araceae family. This species is incredibly rare in cultivation and is native to the tropical regions of Indochina. It is particularly noted for its broad, lanceolate leaves, which are green with distinct white spots scattered across the surface, giving the foliage a speckled appearance. The leaf emerges from a tall, singular petiole and can reach considerable size. As with many Amorphophallus species, A. lacourii enters a dormancy period after its growth phase, during which the leaf dies back entirely, leaving only the tuber.
Native to: Amorphophallus lacourii is native to the shaded understories of tropical forests in Indochina, where it thrives in the humid, warm conditions typical of these regions.
Water: During the active growing season, the plant requires consistent watering to keep the soil moist but not soggy. It’s crucial to reduce watering as the plant begins to enter dormancy, allowing the soil to dry out completely to prevent tuber rot. Watering should be resumed only when new growth starts to emerge.
Light: This plant prefers bright, indirect light, mimicking the dappled sunlight it would naturally receive in its native forest habitat. Direct sunlight should be avoided, as it can cause damage to the leaves.
Humidity: Amorphophallus lacourii thrives in high humidity environments, ideally above 60%. Regular misting or the use of a humidity tray can help maintain the necessary moisture levels, especially during the growing season.
Temperature: The plant prefers warm temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C during its growth phase. It should be protected from temperatures below 15°C during dormancy to ensure the tuber remains healthy