Family: Araceae
Latin name: Amorphophallus lambii
Origin: Borneo
Rare Amorphophallus species with populations in southern and northern Borneo. There the species grows in the lowland rainforest, especially near streams and rivers. The plant grows with 1 leaf at a time from an underground tuber, whereby the leaf and the tuber keep getting bigger. The leaf grows umbrella-shaped and has a graceful, mottled petiole. If the tuber has stored enough energy (after at least 5 years), the plant can blossom with a large inflorescence. The bract is green on the outside and purple on the inside. The spadix in the center varies in color. With an unpleasant smell, carrion insects are attracted for the pollination of the flowers.
If a leaf dies without a new leaf appearing, the plant goes dormant. During this period you can water a little less, but do not let the soil dry out. In the growth phase you can keep the soil constantly moist, it is important not to keep it too dry or too wet. An airy soil mixture of bark, Sphagnum, coconut fiber and perlite is suitable and extra houseplant nutrition can be given during growth. In addition, ensure a light location without direct sunlight. And a temperature of 20-25 degrees Celsius.
The species is named after Anthony Lamb, an English botanist who has done extensive research on the flora of northern Borneo.
Sowing instructions: Sow in an airy mixture of, for example, Sphagnum moss and coconut fibre. Keep slightly moist and allow to germinate at 25-30 degrees Celsius.
Sowing period: All year
Difficulty Level: Medium
Minimum temperature: 15 degrees Celsius