Voodoo Lily (Typhonium blumei)

Voodoo Lily

Typhonium blumei

Its hooded spathe hides a slender spadix, a quiet tropical oddity. Herbaceous perennial; common name: dragon stalk yam.

Partial sun
1–2/week
Moderate
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Bright indirect light; tolerates partial shade; avoid intense midday direct sun to prevent leaf scorch
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Watering Water when the top 2 cm of soil dries completely; avoid waterlogging to prevent tuber rot
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Temperature Thrives in 18–25℃; protect from temperatures below 10℃ to prevent tuber damage and dormancy disruption
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Arrow-shaped, glossy green leaves with long petioles, emerging from underground tubers
  • Flower: Hooded greenish-white spathe enclosing a slender, pale yellow spadix; emits faint, earthy scent
  • Tuber: Small, round underground storage tuber that supports seasonal growth
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil evenly moist but not soggy; mist leaves occasionally to boost ambient humidity

Fertilization

Diluted balanced liquid feed every 2 weeks. Cease fertilization in autumn and winter when plant growth slows or enters dormancy

Banana peel compost tea:Compost banana peels for 2 weeks, steep in water, dilute 1:20 for root drench; avoid using raw peels to prevent pest infestations
Pruning
  • Remove yellowing or damaged leaves to maintain airflow and reduce disease risk
  • Trim spent flower stalks after blooming to redirect energy to underground tuber growth
  • Dig up and divide overcrowded tubers in early spring for propagation
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Toxic; may cause drooling, oral pain, vomiting, and reduced appetite

Humans: Contains calcium oxalate crystals; ingestion causes oral irritation and swelling

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental foliage and flowering plant; limited traditional medicinal uses in some Southeast Asian regions