Bulbiferous Corpse Flower
amorphophallus bulbifer
Also known as: ["Bulbiferous Amorphophallus","Little Corpse Flower"]
Overview
A unique aroid with a small, bulbiferous structure and a pungent odor when flowering, native to India and Southeast Asia.
Benefits & Perks
["rare/collector’s item","seasonal color change"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Alismatales |
| Family: | Araceae |
| Genus: | Amorphophallus |
| Botanical Name: | Amorphophallus bulbifer |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in a bright, humid room or shaded outdoor garden bed
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain humidity, especially in dry climates
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loose, and rich in organic matter; cactus mix with added compost works well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed; typically after flowering or when leaves yellow.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; focus on removing unsightly or diseased foliage.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light; protect from intense sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to filtered light
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh light; move outdoors in mild weather.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce to monthly in dormancy
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; adjust based on season and growth stage.
Soil
well-draining, rich in organic matter with some sand
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix that doesn’t compact; ensure pots have drainage; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); cooler temperatures (50–60°F or 10–15°C) during dormancy.
Avoid drafts; maintain stable temperatures; adjust care during dormancy.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize in spring/summer only; dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; stop before dormancy.
Propagation
Methods
Division of tubers or leaf cuttings with aerial bulbils.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Separate tubers or cut leaf with bulbil.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist.
- Provide warmth and humidity.
Best Time: Spring when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–80°F or 21–27°C), high humidity, and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for leaf cuttings.
Timeline
Aerial bulbils may root in 4–6 weeks; tuber division establishes quickly if healthy.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, rooting hormone, pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use sterile tools; keep bulbils moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut leaves at the base; avoid cutting into the tuber.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning; remove dead or damaged leaves to maintain appearance and health.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruners.
Checklist
Check for dead/damaged leaves; sterilize tools; cut cleanly; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure it has drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the tuber outgrows the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; handle tuber carefully.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; avoid wetting foliage; 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 frequency in dormant periods (fall-winter) to prevent rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves (too cold); wilting or leaf drop (too hot); stunted growth.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can cause leaf drop and dormancy; prolonged cold may damage tuber.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pot; reduce watering during dormancy.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf burn, and reduced vigor.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth stage; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid foliage contact.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth; avoid fertilizing during dormancy.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats are susceptible to mild toxicity from the Amorphophallus bulbifer due to the calcium oxalate crystals present in the plant. Ingestion can lead to oral and gastrointestinal irritation.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicDogs may experience mild to moderate toxicity if they ingest parts of the Amorphophallus bulbifer. The presence of calcium oxalate crystals can cause oral and gastrointestinal irritation.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicThe Amorphophallus bulbifer contains calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause irritation and inflammation upon ingestion. The tubers and leaves are the primary toxic parts, and consumption can lead to mild to moderate gastrointestinal distress.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the Amorphophallus bulbifer toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often does the Bulbiferous Corpse Flower bloom?
A: It typically blooms once a year, usually in late spring or early summer.
Q: What kind of care does this plant require?
A: It needs moderate watering, partial shade, and well-draining soil to thrive.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Araceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to filtered ligh |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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