Hydrosme - Devil's-Tongue, Snake Palm, Voodoo Plant

(Hydros'me)

DESCRIPTION: This is a tuberous rooted plant that is a native of Africa and Asia. Hydrosme grows 3-4 feet tall and its huge bloom, which resembles a calla lily, is produced in late winter or spring before the foliage appears. The flower is brownish-purple and at maturity gives out a putrid odor. During the summer, this plant may be placed outdoors, either in the open ground or buried just about to the rim of its pot in soil, cinders, or sand.

POTTING: Good compost to use for this plant is one-third each of loam, leaf mold, and sand. Throughout the season of growth, plenty of water and feedings of dilute liquid fertilizer should be given. During the winter, its rest period, the tuber should be stored, fairly dry, in a temperature of 50-60 degrees.

PROPAGATION: This plant is easily increased with offsets.

VARIETIES: H. Rivieri. Back to our botanical home page.

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