| Description: |
Spade-shaped leaves three feet (90cm) long and almost as wide are held on long stalks. All parts of the leaf are dusty-purple. The underground tuber become large and are a food source (but check with someone who knows before sampling them). Inflorescence a fleshy spadix in a hooding spathe. |
| Environment: |
Suitable for the home or a greenhouse |
| Lighting Needs: |
Does best in bright indirect sunlight coming from the South/East/West |
| Soil Type: |
A GOOD general purpose potting soil (a soil that retains water yet drains well) will suffice. Check purchased soil to see that it is well aerated and add sand or perlite and peat moss if it seems to pack too tightly. Give the plants a chance to settle in before going back to whatever fertilization program has been successful for you. If you want to mix your own take:
1 part garden soil, 1 part coarse sand or perlite, 1 part moist peat or humus (leaf mold) and a light dusting of lime.
Always use a pot with a hole.
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| Watering: |
Keep the soil evenly moist and if you use rainwater, be careful as it could be acidic. Use warm water. |
| Fertilizer: |
Feed weekly during the spring and summer with a water soluble fertilizer diluted by half. |
| Plant Pests: |
Prone to none Always inspect any new plant for pests before introducing it to your home or greenhouse. |
| Propagation: |
Division
in the spring through early summer.
After dividing plant, pot in the plant's regular potting mix.
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| Gardening Tips & Care: |
This plant does not like dry air. Some varieties can irritate sensitive skin. Avoid direct sunlight at all costs. Place pebbles or gravel in the drainage dish to hold water and increase the humidity, make sure the pot is sitting on the gravel and not in the water.
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