Voodoo Lily "Indian Giant" (Sauromatum venosum)

• Latin name: Sauromatum venosum 'Indian Giant' (formerly Typhonium venosum)
• Danish names: Slangelilje, voodoolilje
• English names: Voodoo lily, leopard arum, snake arum

Sauromatum venosum 'Indian Giant' is an exceptionally large-growing variant of the classic voodoo lily and is considered one of the most impressive forms of the species. Originally from India, it has been selected for its vigorous growth, large tubers, and significantly larger leaves than the common Sauromatum venosum. For collectors of exotic Araceae, 'Indian Giant' is one of the most sought-after varieties.

About the plant

Like the common species, 'Indian Giant' often blooms directly from the dormant tuber, long before the leaf develops. The inflorescence consists of a large purple spathe, which encloses a nearly black spadix. In the first hours of flowering, the plant emits a strong scent of carrion to attract flies and other pollinating insects. The odor disappears quickly, while the flower can remain attractive for several days.

After flowering, a single large, palmately divided leaf develops on a sturdy, mottled stem. It is here that 'Indian Giant' clearly distinguishes itself from the common species. Under good growing conditions, the leaf can reach up to 1.5 meters in height, and the leaf blade, stem, and tuber all become significantly larger. This gives the plant a highly exotic appearance, reminiscent of small tropical trees.

Tuber, plant, and dormant period

Sauromatum venosum 'Indian Giant' follows a distinct annual cycle with an active growth period and a dormant period. The product can therefore be supplied either as a dormant tuber or as a plant in active growth.

A dormant tuber can bloom, even without soil or water, if the flower bud has already developed. Thereafter – or if the plant skips flowering that particular year – the characteristic leaf develops when the tuber is planted. A plant in growth is supplied already with shoots or a leaf and must be treated as an actively growing plant.

Cultivation and care

The tuber should be planted in a large pot with well-drained, humus-rich soil. Since this variant develops significantly larger tubers than the common species, it benefits from a spacious pot and a nutrient-rich growth medium. Cover the tuber with a few centimeters of soil.

The plant thrives best in partial shade or bright, filtered light, where the leaves develop most vigorously. During the growing season, keep the soil evenly moist without being constantly wet, as the tuber can be damaged by standing water.

'Indian Giant' is an extremely vigorous variant and has a greater demand for nutrients than the common species. Regular fertilization throughout the growing season contributes to the development of both the impressive leaf and an increasingly larger tuber. We recommend a good organic fertilizer.

Like the common species, 'Indian Giant' often forms offsets (bulblets), which can eventually be separated from the parent tuber and grown on as new plants.

Overwintering

When the leaf begins to wither, gradually reduce watering. After the leaf has completely died back, the tuber can either remain in dry soil or be dug up and stored in a dark, dry, and cool place at approximately 5-10 °C until the next growing season.

Although the species can tolerate light frost for short periods, frost-free overwintering is recommended to ensure stable growth and maximum development of the tuber.

A spectacular collector's plant

Sauromatum venosum 'Indian Giant' combines everything that makes voodoo lilies fascinating: the dramatic flowering, the unusual ability to bloom from a dry tuber, and an enormous tropical leaf. At the same time, this clone grows significantly more vigorously than the common species and quickly becomes a natural eye-catcher in the greenhouse, conservatory, or on the patio.

For collectors of rare Aroids, 'Indian Giant' is considered one of the most beautiful and impressive forms of Sauromatum venosum. See also our entire collection of tropical aroid tubers.

Note

Select the variant based on whether you want a dormant tuber or a plant in active growth. Tubers are usually for sale in the winter half of the year, while plants are usually for sale in the summer half.

- The pictures are intended as examples of the species and do not necessarily represent the exact plant or tuber being purchased.