Araceae
Amorphophallus maximus
H
Not currently in the nursery
We can propagate most native species on request — get in touch to discuss timeline and quantity.
About
Amorphophallus maximus is a subtropical tuberous herbaceous plant native to East and Southern Africa, including Kenya, Tanzania, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, and Somalia. It produces a large subterranean tuber and a single leaf, with the petiole reaching up to 1 meter in length. This species is notable for its impressive inflorescence, which can grow up to 2 meters tall, consisting of a spathe enclosing a spadix. It typically thrives in desert or dry shrubland biomes.
Where it works in Kilifi
This species is suitable for placement under tree canopies in a Kilifi-coast garden or landscape, mimicking its natural occurrence on Kilifi Plantation. It thrives in warm, humid conditions with well-drained, humus-rich soil, preferring partial sun to full shade.
Growing notes
Amorphophallus maximus is generally easy to grow, requiring consistent watering and feeding during its active summer growing season. Once the leaf dies down for dormancy, watering should be significantly reduced or stopped, with tubers stored dry in a warm, pest-free area until spring to prevent rot. Alternatively, some growers recommend keeping dormant tubers mildly moist to prevent desiccation and encourage new growth. This tropical plant is not frost-hardy and needs protection from cold temperatures.
Sources
Researched with web grounding from: wikipedia.org, kew.org, gbif.org, kilifigarden.info.ke, cycadales.eu, ncsu.edu. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.