Amorphophallus konjac (Devil's Tongue)

Amorphophallus konjac, is an unusual tuberous plant also called the Aaron’s rod or Devil’s tongue. It is native to East and Southeast Asia, where it grows in lowland areas along sunny forest edges or in open woodland habitats, often in places of former plantations. It belongs to the same genus as the famous Amorphophallus titanum, one of the largest flowering plants in the world.

The life cycle of this plant is highly distinctive. A flowering structure emerges first from the tuber, and only after it withers does the large leaf usually appear. The leaf is tall and green, carried on a mottled stalk, and can reach up to about 1 metre in height. Underground, the plant develops a large starchy tuber, which may grow up to around 25 cm in diameter and serves as a storage organ for the next season.

The inflorescence is surrounded by a striking spathe with a dark purple inner colouring and may reach up to about 55 cm in length. The flowers are well known for their strong smell, which in nature attracts pollinators. If the tuber has not stored enough energy, the plant may produce only a leaf and will not flower in that year.

After the growing season, the above-ground parts gradually die back and the plant enters a long dormancy period, which can last up to 7 months over winter. Amorphophallus konjac is also valued as a useful crop – its tubers are used in Asia to produce konjac flour and a jelly called konnyaku, a traditional ingredient in Japanese cuisine. Thanks to its exotic growth habit and remarkable life cycle, it is an excellent choice for anyone looking to grow a truly exceptional tuberous plant.