Amorphophallus hewittii (Hewitt's Voodoo Lily): Complete Care & Growing Guide for Aroid Enthusiasts & Collectors.
Amorphophallus hewittii
Amorphophallus hewittii (Hewitt's Voodoo Lily) (Source: wikimedia)
1. Introduction & Taxonomy
The annual emergence of Amorphophallus hewittii from its underground tuber is one of the great spectacles of the aroid world. From apparent lifelessness, the plant produces its leaf and inflorescence with startling speed, completing its above-ground cycle before retreating once more into dormancy. Its natural range in Borneo that produces one large leaf of almost treelike dimensions each year from a huge underground tuber provides important clues to its preferred growing conditions. Its deciduous, tuberous habit reflects a life strategy built around seasonal dormancy — the tuber stores reserves that fuel the next season's explosive growth. Amorphophallus hewittii is notable for its maroon spathe, its distinctive carrion-like scent used to attract pollinators, its underground tuber that stores energy during dormancy.
A giant aroid native to Borneo that produces one large leaf of almost treelike dimensions each year from a huge underground tuber. When the leaf wilts in the dry season and the plant goes into dormancy, the tuber can be dug up and stored dry. Before a new leaf is produced, mature plants can sprout a giant, maroon inflorescence that is truly a spectacular sight, but emits a rather unpleasant smell. Appearance Ornamental Value Beautiful
Taxonomic Classification
Habitat and Distribution
Amorphophallus hewittii is native to Borneo that produces one large leaf of almost treelike dimensions each year from a huge underground tuber. This species inhabits diverse environments typical of the aroid family, from tropical rainforest understories to montane cloud forests.
Botanical Note: The family Araceae (aroids) is one of the largest monocot families, comprising over 3,750 species across 144 genera. Aroids are defined by their unique inflorescence: a fleshy spike (spadix) bearing tiny flowers, surrounded by a modified leaf (spathe). This family includes some of the most popular houseplants (Monstera, Philodendron, Pothos) as well as important food crops (taro, Colocasia esculenta) and the plant with the world’s largest unbranched inflorescence (Amorphophallus titanum).
Native Range & Distribution Map
The map below shows the native range and notable cultivation regions for Amorphophallus hewittii.
2. Biology & Morphology
Growth Form & Architecture
Amorphophallus hewittii is a deciduous, tuberous aroid. It produces an underground tuber (or corm) that serves as an energy reservoir, allowing the plant to survive unfavourable seasons in a state of complete dormancy. When conditions improve, the tuber sends up new growth — typically a single, spectacular leaf or inflorescence.
Leaf Morphology
The leaves of Amorphophallus hewittii are characteristic of the genus. Like all aroids, new leaves emerge rolled or folded from a protective cataphyll, gradually unfurling to reveal the full lamina.
Inflorescence Structure
The inflorescence is the hallmark of the aroid family: a central spadix bearing densely packed, tiny flowers, enclosed or subtended by a spathe (a modified bract). In Amorphophallus, the spathe can be highly ornamental and varies from subtle green to dramatically coloured. The spadix may produce heat (thermogenesis) and volatile compounds to attract pollinators.
Key Characteristics
- Height: 0.5-3m
- Growth Habit: Tuberous / Deciduous
- Growth Rate: Fast (seasonal) under optimal conditions
- Dormancy: Goes dormant in unfavourable seasons; tuber can be stored dry
Anatomical Insight: Unlike bananas (Musaceae) which form pseudostems from leaf sheaths, aroids have true stems — though these may be underground (tubers, corms, rhizomes), creeping (stolons), or climbing (with aerial roots). The calcium oxalate raphides (needle-shaped crystals) found in most aroid tissues serve as a defence against herbivory and can cause skin irritation in humans.
Notable Adaptations
Like all Amorphophallus, the inflorescence of Amorphophallus hewittii is thermogenic: the spadix can raise its temperature 15–20°C above ambient during the first evening of anthesis. This heat pulse disperses volatile attractants that mimic rotting flesh, luring pollinators into the spathe chamber. Like virtually all aroids, Amorphophallus hewittii contains calcium oxalate crystals (raphides) in its tissues. These needle-shaped crystals serve as a chemical defence against herbivory and are responsible for the intense irritation caused by chewing raw aroid tissue.
3. Reproduction & Propagation
The primary propagation methods for Amorphophallus hewittii: Seeds, offsets from mature tubers, or tuber division.
Propagating Amorphophallus hewittii
Vegetative propagation of Amorphophallus hewittii relies on tuber offsets and division. Some species in the genus (notably A. bulbifer) produce bulbils on the leaf petiole, but most require either tuber division or seed. Fresh seed germinates readily at 25–30°C in moist substrate.
Many tuberous aroids produce berry-like fruits containing seeds that germinate readily when fresh. Seeds lose viability quickly and should be sown immediately after harvest.
Vegetative Propagation
- Division: Separate offsets or split rhizomes during the growing season, ensuring each division has roots and at least one growth point
- Stem Cuttings: For climbing species — cut below a node with an aerial root, root in moist sphagnum at 22–28°C
- Tuber Offsets: Mature tubers often produce small offset tubers that can be separated during dormancy
Aroid Pollination Biology: Many aroid species are protogynous — the female flowers on the spadix mature before the males, promoting cross-pollination. Some genera (notably Amorphophallus and Arisaema) produce heat and volatile compounds to attract fly pollinators.
Propagation Tips: (1) Aroid seeds must be sown fresh — viability drops rapidly with storage. (2) Use sterile, well-draining substrate (perlite, sphagnum, or vermiculite). (3) Maintain warmth (22–28°C) and high humidity. (4) Many aroids can be propagated in water initially, then transferred to soil. (5) Wear gloves when handling cut stems — calcium oxalate sap causes skin irritation.
4. Cultivation Requirements
Amorphophallus hewittii performs best in humus-rich, well-drained soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (5.5–7.0). Good drainage is critical — tuberous aroids are extremely susceptible to rot in waterlogged conditions. Partial shade mimics the dappled forest-floor light of its native habitat. Humidity is critical for Amorphophallus hewittii: aim for 60–80% relative humidity. In dry indoor environments, use a humidifier, pebble tray, or group plants together to create a beneficial microclimate. During dormancy, reduce watering to a bare minimum and stop feeding entirely. Store the dormant tuber in its pot or lift and keep in dry peat at 12–18°C. Do not discard apparently dead tubers — they can remain viable for many months. Feed every two weeks during active growth with a balanced liquid fertiliser (NPK 20-20-20) diluted to half strength. Reduce to monthly during slower growth periods.
Soil / Substrate
Use a well-draining mix rich in organic matter: compost (40%), perlite (30%), peat or coir (20%), sand (10%). Good drainage is critical — dormant tubers rot quickly in wet soil.
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist but never waterlogged during the growing season. Reduce watering when the plant enters dormancy — dormant tubers should be kept nearly dry.
Light Requirements
Bright indirect to dappled light. Some species tolerate full sun, but most prefer protection from intense midday radiation. Tuberous species need good light during their active growth phase.
Temperature
- Optimal Growth: 18–28°C (65–82°F)
- Minimum Tolerance: 5°C
- USDA Hardiness: Zones 10-12
Humidity
Most aroids thrive at 60–80% relative humidity. Low humidity causes brown leaf tips, reduced growth, and increased pest susceptibility. Use humidifiers, pebble trays, or group plants together to create a favourable microclimate.
Fertilization
Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer (NPK 20-20-20) every 2–4 weeks during the growing season. Reduce or stop feeding during dormancy or winter. Tuberous species benefit from a high-potassium feed to build tuber reserves before dormancy.
Common Cultivation Mistake: Overwatering is the number one killer of aroids in cultivation. Ensure containers have adequate drainage holes and never allow pots to sit in standing water (except for truly aquatic species). Root rot from Pythium and Phytophthora is often fatal before symptoms are visible above soil level.
Monthly Care Calendar
Use this visual guide for seasonal care timing. Intensity levels indicate how much attention each task requires.
5. Diseases & Pests
Fungal and bacterial tuber rots are the primary disease threats to Amorphophallus hewittii. Prevention is entirely about drainage and hygiene: never allow the tuber to sit in waterlogged substrate, sterilise cutting tools, and dust any wounds with fungicide before storage.
Major Diseases
Bacterial Soft Rot (Erwinia / Pectobacterium)
The most devastating aroid disease. Bacteria liquefy plant tissue, causing mushy, foul-smelling collapse of stems, petioles, and tubers. Spreads rapidly in warm, wet conditions. Prevention: avoid overwatering, ensure drainage, sterilize tools. Infected tissue must be removed immediately and destroyed.
Root and Tuber Rot (Pythium, Phytophthora)
Oomycete pathogens that thrive in waterlogged substrates. Symptoms include wilting despite moist soil, yellowing leaves, and brown/black roots. Use well-draining media and allow appropriate drying between waterings.
Anthracnose (Colletotrichum)
Fungal leaf spots with dark margins, often with concentric rings. Common in humid conditions with poor air circulation. Remove affected leaves and improve ventilation.
Common Pests
- Spider Mites — Thrive in dry conditions; cause stippled, bronzed foliage. Increase humidity and apply miticides.
- Mealybugs — White, cottony masses in leaf axils and on stems. Treat with isopropyl alcohol or systemic insecticide.
- Thrips — Cause silvery streaks on leaves. Particularly problematic on Anthurium and Monstera.
- Scale Insects — Brown or white bumps on stems and leaf undersides. Scrape off manually or treat with horticultural oil.
- Fungus Gnats — Larvae feed on roots in overly moist substrate. Allow topsoil to dry and use yellow sticky traps.
Integrated Pest Management: (1) Quarantine all new plants for 2–4 weeks. (2) Inspect regularly — early detection is key. (3) Maintain optimal humidity (60–80%) to deter mites. (4) Use sterile potting media. (5) Sterilize cutting tools between plants with 70% isopropyl alcohol. (6) Neem oil is effective as both preventive and treatment for most soft-bodied pests.
Additional Disease & Pest Considerations
Thrips can cause silvery streaking and distortion on new leaves, while fungus gnats (Bradysia spp.) breed in persistently moist substrate and their larvae can damage fine roots. Allow the top layer of substrate to dry between waterings to break the gnat life cycle. Blue and yellow sticky traps help monitor populations.
6. Indoor Growing Guide
Indoor cultivation of Amorphophallus hewittii is seasonal: dramatic growth during spring and summer, followed by complete dormancy in winter. The tuber requires no light, water, or attention during dormancy — simply store in its pot or in dry peat at 12–18°C.
Container Selection
Select a pot with drainage holes sized appropriately for the root mass. Oversized pots retain excess moisture and increase rot risk.
Indoor Light
Most aroids are understory plants and thrive in bright, indirect light. A north- or east-facing window (Northern Hemisphere) is typically ideal. Supplement with grow lights during winter — full-spectrum LEDs for 12–14 hours daily make a dramatic difference in growth quality.
Humidity & Air Circulation
Indoor humidity of 50–70% is adequate for most species; 70–80% is optimal. Central heating and air conditioning can drop humidity below 30%, causing brown leaf tips, reduced growth, and pest vulnerability. Use humidifiers, group tropical plants together, or grow in a bathroom with natural light.
Seasonal Indoor Care
- Spring: Resume regular feeding and increase watering. Repot if root-bound.
- Summer: Peak growth — water consistently, feed every 2 weeks, consider moving outdoors to a shaded spot
- Autumn: Reduce feeding. Tuberous species begin dormancy — reduce watering as leaves yellow.
- Winter: Minimal growth — water sparingly, stop fertilizing. Watch for spider mites in dry heated rooms.
Indoor Success Key: The combination of bright indirect light, consistent humidity above 55%, and well-draining substrate covers 90% of indoor aroid success. If your plant is struggling, address these three factors before anything else.
Species-Specific Indoor Tips
During dormancy, the container can be stored in a warm, dark cupboard without watering. Resume care when new growth emerges — do not discard the apparently empty pot. Clean leaves regularly with a damp cloth to remove dust, maximise photosynthesis, and discourage spider mites. Rotate the pot quarterly to ensure even growth. Group tropical aroids together to create a beneficial humidity microclimate.
7. Landscape Use & Design
In landscape design, Amorphophallus hewittii serves as an excellent structural plant, providing the bold foliage that defines tropical-style gardens and contemporary planting schemes.
Design Applications
- Tropical Border: Combine with bananas, heliconias, gingers, and tree ferns for layered jungle texture
- Shade Garden: Most aroids thrive in dappled shade — perfect for underplanting beneath palms or large trees
- Water Feature: Plant near water features for a lush, tropical atmosphere
- Container Feature: Large decorative pots on patios and terraces allow flexible placement
- Vertical Interest: Use upright species as structural accents in mixed plantings
Companion Planting
Create stunning tropical compositions by pairing with:
- Banana species (Musa, Ensete) — dramatic height and complementary bold foliage
- Tree Ferns (Dicksonia, Cyathea) — structural understory contrast
- Bromeliads — colourful rosettes at ground level
- Orchids — epiphytic companions on shared supports
- Hardy Gingers (Hedychium) — fragrant flowers and lush foliage
- Begonias — shade-loving foliage contrast
Design Principle: Aroids provide some of the boldest foliage textures available to gardeners. Use them to create layered depth — large-leaved species (Alocasia, Xanthosoma) as backdrop, mid-sized species (Philodendron, Anthurium) in the middle ground, and compact species (Aglaonema, Spathiphyllum) at the front.
Species-Specific Design Ideas
For maximum tropical effect, create layered plantings with Amorphophallus hewittii as a structural element, surrounded by Hedychium (ginger lily), Canna, Strelitzia, and ornamental grasses for textural contrast. Mulch heavily with organic matter for moisture retention and a finished appearance.
8. Cold Climate Strategies
In USDA zones 10-12, Amorphophallus hewittii may survive outdoors if the dormant tuber is protected with 20–30 cm of dry mulch and a waterproof cap to prevent rain saturation. In colder zones, lift and store the tuber frost-free. The key principle: dry cold is survivable; wet cold is lethal.
Hardiness Thresholds
- USDA Zones: 10-12
- Minimum Survival Temperature: 5°C
Overwintering Options
- Tuber Storage: Lift tubers after foliage dies back, dry for 1-2 days, then store in dry peat or vermiculite at 10-15°C. Check monthly for rot.
- Heavy Mulch (borderline zones): Apply 15–30 cm of dry mulch over the crown/tuber zone after the first frost. Cover with waterproof material to prevent moisture saturation.
- Greenhouse: An unheated or minimally heated glasshouse provides ideal winter protection for tender aroids.
- Indoor Windowsill: Many compact aroids thrive year-round on bright windowsills, making cold protection unnecessary.
Winter Survival Rule: Cold + wet = death. This applies to aroids even more than to bananas. Tubers and rhizomes that sit in cold, waterlogged soil rot rapidly. Ensure excellent drainage above all else when overwintering aroids outdoors.
Additional Winter Protection
Label stored tubers clearly with species name and date. It is easy to confuse dormant Amorphophallus or Arisaema tubers once they are cleaned and stored. Store in a single layer in open trays for good air circulation. Spring emergence after winter protection can be slow. Do not remove mulch or coverings prematurely — late frosts can kill tender new growth. Wait until night temperatures consistently exceed 5°C (41°F) before uncovering.
9. Ethnobotany & Cultural Significance
Amorphophallus species have long featured in the traditional food and medicine systems of Southeast Asia. Tubers of several species are consumed after processing to remove calcium oxalate crystals. Amorphophallus hewittii is part of a genus with deep cultural roots across its native range. Wild populations of Amorphophallus hewittii, like many aroid species, face increasing pressure from habitat destruction, agricultural expansion, and overcollection for the horticultural trade. Responsible sourcing and propagation from cultivated stock are essential for conservation.
Conservation Note: Many aroid species face increasing pressure from habitat destruction, over-collection, and climate change. Cultivating diverse aroid species in gardens and collections contributes to ex-situ conservation. By growing Amorphophallus hewittii, you help maintain the genetic diversity of this remarkable plant family.
Frequently Asked Questions
How big does Hewitt's Voodoo Lily get?
Specific size data for Amorphophallus hewittii is limited. As a member of Amorphophallus, expect growth patterns typical of the genus.
How cold-hardy is Hewitt's Voodoo Lily?
Amorphophallus hewittii is estimated to be hardy in USDA zones 10-12, with a minimum survival temperature of approximately 0°C (32°F). Standard aroid cold protection applies: bring indoors before frost or protect with heavy mulch.
Is Hewitt's Voodoo Lily toxic to pets and children?
Yes. Like virtually all aroids, Amorphophallus hewittii contains calcium oxalate crystals (raphides) throughout its tissues. Chewing any part of the plant causes intense burning and swelling of the mouth and throat. Keep away from children, cats, and dogs. Handling may cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals — wear gloves when pruning or repotting.
Can Hewitt's Voodoo Lily be grown indoors?
Yes, as a seasonal display. The tuber can be potted indoors in spring; the dramatic leaf (and occasionally the inflorescence) provides a spectacular temporary show. Store the dormant tuber dry indoors in winter. Note: the inflorescence produces a strong carrion odour.
How do you propagate Hewitt's Voodoo Lily?
Tuber division is the most reliable method. Divide dormant tubers ensuring each section has a growth eye. Dust cut surfaces with fungicide. Seed is also viable but requires fresh seed and specific germination conditions for the genus.
How often should I water Hewitt's Voodoo Lily?
Water Amorphophallus hewittii when the top 2–3 cm of substrate has dried. Aroids generally prefer consistently moist (not waterlogged) conditions during active growth. Reduce watering in winter or during dormancy. For deciduous species, stop watering entirely during dormancy.
Why are the leaves of Hewitt's Voodoo Lily turning yellow?
Yellow leaves on Amorphophallus hewittii typically indicate overwatering, root rot, insufficient light, or nutrient deficiency. Check the roots: healthy aroid roots are white or light tan; brown, mushy roots indicate rot. Improve drainage, reduce watering, and ensure adequate light.
How bad is the smell when Hewitt's Voodoo Lily flowers?
The inflorescence produces a strong carrion-like odour during the first 24–48 hours of anthesis. Intensity varies by species. The smell attracts pollinating flies and beetles. Open windows or place the plant outdoors during flowering if possible.
Summary & Key Takeaways
Amorphophallus hewittii is a distinctive member of the genus Amorphophallus, native to Borneo that produces one large leaf of almost treelike dimensions each year from a huge underground tuber, notable for a tuberous rootstock, seasonal dormancy. Hardy to approximately 0°C (32°F) (USDA zones 10-12), it can be grown in suitable climates with appropriate winter protection.
Key Points to Remember:
- Propagation: Tuber/seed/offsets
- Light: Bright indirect light (most aroids are understory plants)
- Substrate: Well-draining, rich in organic matter
- Humidity: 60-80% for optimal growth
- Hardiness: USDA Zones 10-12, minimum 5°C
- Key Threat: Overwatering and root rot — drainage is paramount