The term voodoo conjures up visions of mystical and maniacal quasi religious acts featuring painted bodies and wild head dresses, and one look at these flowering plants can very well stimulate the imagination.  The voodoo lilies, part of the Aroid family, have amazed and mystified not only plant lovers but any who have seen them in flower.  Originally from the woodlands of Eastern Himalaya and parts of Africa they have become a novelty and collector item.

For those of us fortunate to obtain a second or third year bulb/corm, generally flowering size, it is just a matter of time in early spring when a pointed protrusion emerges from the center of the bulb.  As the weather warms in May this projection unfurls to expose a most unusual flower.

Actually called an inflorescence, the flower consists of a spathe, really a modified leaf and a spadix.  The purple spadix is an erect cylinder that narrows to a point and can grow to three feet tall.  When ready, the spadix will turn up the heat, emitting a most foul odor analogous to rotting meat, attracting flies essential for pollination.  Fortunately the stench lasts only a day or two.

The flower eventually dies and over the next few weeks the foliage gracefully emerges.  Large patterned finger-like leaflets slowly open like a fan, hovering over the soft green petioles splashed with dark lavender spots.

For growing these mystical plants it is important to plant them in full sun to light shade and for over-wintering outside, they should be covered with good mulch.  They are also great for large outdoor pots and should be planted in a good potting mix at the first sign of activity.  Do not water until the flower starts to emerge, then water as needed. At the end of the season when the leaves have gone by, store the bulb in a cool, dry area such as a garage or basement.

4 pint plants - $20.00
2 gallon - $18 (summer)