Typhonium blumei aka Dwarf Voodoo Lily

During the active growing season (spring through fall), keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water when the top inch of soil begins to dry out. In winter, when the plant enters dormancy and the foliage dies back, reduce watering significantly and keep the soil mostly dry to prevent tuber rot. Resume regular watering when new growth emerges in spring.

Typhonium blumei thrives in well-draining soil rich in organic matter. A loam-based compost or a mix of loam, sand, and humus works well. The soil should be slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0-7.5). Good drainage is essential to prevent waterlogging and tuber rot, especially during the winter dormancy period when the soil should be kept relatively dry.

Typhonium blumei prefers moderate humidity levels typical of most homes. Being native to seasonally dry tropical regions, it tolerates a range of humidity conditions. During the active growing season, average indoor humidity (40-60%) is sufficient. The plant is not as demanding about humidity as some tropical aroids, making it adaptable to typical indoor environments.

Feed Typhonium blumei during the active growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer every 2-4 weeks. Stop fertilizing in autumn as the plant prepares for dormancy, and do not feed during the winter rest period. Resume feeding when new growth appears in spring. Over-fertilizing can damage the tuber, so err on the side of less rather than more.

Typhonium blumei prefers warm temperatures during the growing season, ideally between 18-27°C (65-80°F). It is hardy to USDA zones 7-10, meaning it can tolerate temperatures down to about -15°C (5°F) when dormant, especially if the tubers are protected with dry mulch. However, it does not tolerate frost on active growth. In colder climates, grow as a houseplant or lift tubers for winter storage.

Typhonium blumei is propagated by tuber division or offsets. Divide tubers during the dormant season (late winter/early spring), ensuring each division has at least one growing point. Offsets (small tubers that form at the base of the parent plant) can be separated when they reach 2-3 inches in size with their own roots. Plant divisions shallowly in well-draining compost, keep just moist, and maintain warmth until new growth appears. Tubers reach flowering size at around 2cm diameter.

Typhonium blumei is a compact plant, typically reaching 30-60cm (1-2 feet) in height. It grows from an underground tuber that reaches flowering size at approximately 2cm in diameter. Growth rate is slow, with some specimens requiring up to 5 years to reach maturity, though established tubers can bulk up relatively quickly. The plant is deciduous, dying back completely during winter dormancy and re-emerging in spring.

Yes, Typhonium blumei produces a distinctive inflorescence typical of the aroid family. The flower consists of a velvety maroon spathe (the hood-like structure) surrounding a long brownish spadix, giving it a cobra-hood appearance. Blooms appear in summer once tubers reach approximately 2cm in size. The flowers are short-lived and emit a strong, unpleasant odor reminiscent of rotting meat, which attracts fly pollinators.

When in bloom, Typhonium blumei produces a strong, unpleasant odor often described as smelling like rotting flesh or decaying meat. This foul scent is a pollination strategy common in many aroids, designed to attract carrion flies which then pollinate the flowers. The scent is only produced during the brief flowering period and is characteristic of the genus. Many growers humorously note that 'this plant stinks' when discussing the bloom.

Typhonium blumei is native to the seasonally dry tropical regions of Asia, with a range extending from southern China through Indo-China to Taiwan and the Ryukyu Islands (Nansei-shoto). Its native distribution includes Bangladesh, Cambodia, Hainan, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand, and Vietnam. The species has since naturalized in many tropical and subtropical regions worldwide, including parts of Australia, the Caribbean, Madagascar, and various Pacific islands.

Typhonium blumei can be grown outdoors in USDA hardiness zones 7-10. In zones 7-8, provide a sheltered, partially shaded location and protect dormant tubers with a thick layer of dry mulch over winter. In warmer zones 9-10, it can remain in the ground year-round with minimal protection. In colder climates, grow in containers that can be brought indoors or lift the tubers after the foliage dies back and store them in a cool, dry place until spring.

Repot Typhonium blumei in late winter before new growth begins, typically every 1-2 years or when the tuber outgrows its container. Use a pot only slightly larger than the tuber with good drainage holes. Plant the tuber about 6 inches (15cm) deep in fresh loam-based compost. Handle tubers carefully as they contain irritating calcium oxalate crystals. After repotting, water sparingly until new growth appears.

Typhonium blumei is relatively pest-resistant but can occasionally be affected by common houseplant pests such as aphids, spider mites, and mealybugs. The most significant disease concern is tuber rot, caused by overwatering, especially during the winter dormancy period when the plant should be kept dry. Ensure well-draining soil and avoid waterlogging. The calcium oxalate crystals in the plant tissues provide some natural protection against many pests.

Typhonium blumei has a long history in traditional Chinese medicine dating back to 1924. Different plant parts serve various purposes: leaves (as tincture) for internal injuries, flowers as a resolvent and styptic, tubers as an expectorant and rubefacient, and the whole plant as an antidote. In Southeast Asia, tubers are used to treat wounds, abscesses, snake bites, and respiratory conditions. Modern research has validated anti-allergic and anti-inflammatory properties. However, due to its toxicity, medicinal use should only be undertaken by qualified practitioners.

Typhonium blumei uses sapromyiophily, a pollination strategy that attracts flies. The plant's unpleasant rotting-flesh scent lures carrion flies into the spathe structure. Once inside, flies become trapped in the floral chamber where they feed on secretions while inadvertently pollinating the female flowers at the base of the spadix. After pollination is complete, the flies are released. This specialized pollination mechanism is common among aroids with malodorous flowers.

Dwarf Voodoo Lily requires a bit more attention and knowledge to thrive, making it a suitable plant for those with some gardening experience.

To ensure optimal growth, the Dwarf Voodoo Lily prefers bright diffused light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

Ploi does not possess verified information regarding the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event that you, a member of your family, or a pet ingests plant material with an unclear toxicity level, it is highly recommended to seek the advice of a medical professional.

During the cold period, it is common for Dwarf Voodoo Lily to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more during this period.