Voodoo Lily

sauromatum venosum

Also known as: ["Adder's Mouth","Calla Lily","Devil's Tongue"]

Family: Araceae Genus: Sauromatum Category: Flowers

Overview

A unique aroid known for its striking inflorescence and foul odor, native to tropical and subtropical regions.

Benefits & Perks

["fragrant flowers","rare/collector’s item","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Liliopsida
Order: Alismatales
Family: Araceae
Genus: Sauromatum
Botanical Name: Sauromatum venosum

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: shaded garden bed or container in a cool, humid environment
  • Suitable For:
    Collectors & Enthusiasts Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"7–10"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or coarse sand; can include orchid bark for aeration.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or when foliage declines.
  • Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; remove only dead or yellowing leaves.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily; tolerate partial shade; adjust exposure based on season to prevent leaf burn.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from direct midday sun; move indoors during extreme heat or cold.

Warning Signs: Yellowing or wilting leaves (overwatering); stunted growth (nutrient deficiency or poor soil).

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

partial shade to full shade

Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh sunlight; avoid placing near south-facing windows in summer.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce to monthly in dormancy

Water deeply but infrequently; ensure proper drainage to prevent root rot; adjust frequency based on season and growth stage.

Soil

moist, well-draining, rich in organic matter

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Use pots with drainage holes; avoid heavy garden soil; top-dress with compost annually.

Temperature

Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler temperatures during dormancy; avoid exposure to frost or extreme heat.

Avoid drafty areas; maintain stable temperatures; use a thermometer to monitor conditions.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during active growth, none in dormancy

Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; match fertilizer to plant's growth phase.

Propagation

Methods

Division of rhizomes; occasionally by seed (less common).

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Carefully separate rhizomes with at least one growth bud.
  2. Plant shallowly in new pots.
  3. Water lightly until established.

Best Time: Spring, when the plant is emerging from dormancy.

Environment

Warm, humid conditions with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.

Medium

Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also use sphagnum moss.

Hormone

Not typically required for rhizome division.

Timeline

Rhizomes may produce new growth within weeks; full establishment in 1–2 growing seasons.

Tools Needed

Clean knife or shears, small pots, well-draining soil mix.

Quick Tips

Ensure each division has a growth point; avoid overwatering new divisions; provide gentle warmth for faster rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Snip leaves at the base with clean, sharp tools; avoid cutting into healthy tissue.

Pruning Plan

Minimal pruning needed; focus on removing dead or damaged foliage to maintain plant health.

Tools

Pruning shears, scissors, or a sharp knife.

Checklist

Disinfect tools before use; prune in dry conditions; dispose of removed foliage properly.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, just before active growth begins.

Pot Size

Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure drainage holes are present.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim any dead roots; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when rhizomes outgrow the container; beneficial for rejuvenation.

Checklist

Prepare new pot with fresh soil; handle rhizomes carefully; water lightly after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture before watering; water early in the day; ensure pot has drainage holes.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues; allow excess water to drain completely.

Pro Tip: Use room temperature water to avoid shocking the plant's roots.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water thoroughly during active growth (spring-summer), allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings; reduce watering in dormant periods (fall-winter) to mimic natural cycles.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Yellowing leaves (cold stress); wilting or leaf drop (heat stress); stunted growth.

Cold Stress

Slows metabolic processes; may cause root damage if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C); can lead to dormancy or death.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots with bubble wrap; reduce watering during cold periods.

Hot Stress

Accelerates water loss; may cause leaf scorch or wilting; can disrupt flowering cycles.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check fertilizer label for NPK ratio; dilute correctly; apply during active growth only.

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth; cease fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellow leaves in Sauromatum venosum may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Sauromatum venosum can result from water stress, either due to overwatering causing root rot or underwatering leading to dehydration, both of which impair nutrient uptake and plant stability.

Leaf spots on Sauromatum venosum may be caused by fungal or bacterial infections, leading to reduced photosynthetic efficiency and potential leaf drop if the condition is severe.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, in Sauromatum venosum is often caused by excessive moisture and poor drainage, leading to decay of plant tissues and potential death of the plant.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats are susceptible to irritation from calcium oxalate crystals in Sauromatum venosum. The roots and bulbs can cause mild to moderate gastrointestinal issues if ingested.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy difficulty swallowing
🌿 Toxic Parts:
roots bulbs
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent cats from accessing the plant. Seek veterinary care if ingestion is suspected.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

In dogs, ingestion of Sauromatum venosum can cause irritation due to calcium oxalate crystals. The roots and bulbs are particularly harmful, potentially leading to mild to moderate gastrointestinal upset.

⚠️ Symptoms:
drooling pawing at mouth vomiting diarrhea abdominal pain
🌿 Toxic Parts:
roots bulbs
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep plants away from pets. If ingestion occurs, contact a veterinarian immediately.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Sauromatum venosum contains calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause irritation and inflammation upon ingestion. The plant's roots and bulbs are the most toxic parts, leading to mild to moderate gastrointestinal distress in humans.

⚠️ Symptoms:
mouth irritation throat swelling nausea vomiting diarrhea
🌿 Toxic Parts:
roots bulbs
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid ingestion. Wash hands thoroughly after handling the plant. Keep out of reach of children.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Sauromatum venosum toxic to pets?

A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.

Q: Why does the Voodoo Lily smell bad?

A: The foul odor attracts pollinators such as flies and beetles.

Q: How should I care for Sauromatum venosum?

A: Provide partial shade, well-draining soil, and allow the plant to go dormant in winter.

Quick Reference
Family: Araceae
Care: moderate
Light: partial shade to full shade
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["collectors/enthusiasts","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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