Konjac, Voodoo Lily, Snake Palm
amorphophallus konjac
Also known as: ["Devil's Tongue","Konnyaku Potato"]
Overview
A unique aroid known for its large, inflorescence resembling a cobra's hood and its starchy corm used in culinary applications.
Benefits & Perks
["medicinal use","culinary herb","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Alismatales |
| Family: | Araceae |
| Genus: | Amorphophallus |
| Botanical Name: | Amorphophallus konjac |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: indoor pot or shaded garden bed
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loose mix (e.g., peat-based with perlite or sand).
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed; typically once or twice a year.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light 4–6 hours/day; tolerates partial shade; adjust for intensity in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from direct sun to prevent scorching; move indoors if outdoor light becomes too harsh.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Rotate plant weekly; use sheer curtains in summer; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce to monthly in dormancy
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; adjust frequency based on season and growth stage.
Soil
well-draining, rich in organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress annually.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); cooler temperatures (50–60°F or 10–15°C) during dormancy; avoid frost.
Avoid drafts; use room-temperature water; monitor seasonal changes.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth, none in dormancy
Fertilize after watering; avoid contact with tuber; flush soil occasionally to prevent buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Tuber division; occasionally via seed.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Separate tubers with sharp, sterile knife.
- Plant each division at same depth.
- Water lightly.
Best Time: Spring, when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–80°F or 21–27°C), high humidity, indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix (e.g., cactus soil + perlite or sand).
Hormone
Not typically required for tuber division.
Timeline
Division: immediate establishment; seed: 6–12 months to germinate and grow.
Tools Needed
Sterile knife, clean pots, well-draining soil.
Quick Tips
Ensure each division has roots; keep soil lightly moist; avoid direct sun post-division.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut leaves at the base; avoid cutting into the tuber.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning; remove dead/damaged leaves to maintain health and aesthetics.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruners.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; cut dead leaves; avoid tuber; dispose of debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure bottom drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim dead roots; replace with fresh, well-draining soil; ensure tuber is at soil level.
Suggestions
Repot only when tuber outgrows current pot or soil becomes compacted; every 2–3 years.
Checklist
Check tuber size; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure even moisture without saturation; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly during active growth (spring/summer) when top inch of soil is dry; reduce watering in fall/winter to prevent rot; avoid waterlogged soil year-round.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves (cold); wilting/browning (heat); stunted growth (extremes).
Cold Stress
Slows metabolism; causes leaf yellowing; may lead to root rot if soil stays wet.
Solution: Move to a warmer spot; reduce watering; insulate pot if outdoors.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch; wilting; reduced vigor; may drop leaves.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water early morning/late evening.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to soil; avoid foliage.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer (diluted to half strength) monthly during growing season (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats are susceptible to gastrointestinal irritation if they consume raw or improperly processed Amorphophallus konjac, primarily due to glucomannan and calcium oxalate crystals.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten raw or improperly prepared
Dogs
Slightly ToxicDogs may experience gastrointestinal upset if they ingest raw or improperly prepared Amorphophallus konjac due to the presence of glucomannan and calcium oxalate crystals.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten raw or improperly prepared
Humans
Slightly ToxicThe Amorphophallus konjac contains glucomannan, a polysaccharide that can cause gastrointestinal distress if consumed raw or improperly processed. The plant also contains calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause irritation upon ingestion.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten raw or improperly prepared
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Amorphophallus konjac toxic to pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: Can the corm of Amorphophallus konjac be eaten?
A: Yes, the corm is used to make konnyaku noodles after proper preparation.
Q: Why does Amorphophallus konjac smell bad?
A: The inflorescence emits a strong odor resembling rotting flesh to attract pollinators.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Araceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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