Amorphophallus konjac boasts of diverse aliases such as Voodoo Lily, Elephant Yam, and Devil's Tongue. The scientific name has been in place since 1858. Konjacs and their congeners are so named due to the prominent, “penis-like” spadix protruding from their inflorescence (amorpho = shapeless + phallus = penis).
Physical Description:
The plant’s single stock (up to 40”) emerges from a semi-spherical tuber then splits into a “tri-branched” leaf. The leaf itself is composed of a myriad of leaflets, attaining a maximum diameter of 6 feet. Throughout the growing season the stalk and leaf aid in the accumulation of starches in the tuber. After the growing season, the leaf recedes to allow for a single inflorescence of unmatched beauty.
Additional Facts:
The konjac plant has been known for many centuries to possess unique dietary benefits. This has led to extensive culture in eastern Asia, where it originates. Konjac products are imported in processed forms from China and Japan and can be found in many Asian-American supermarkets. Althought the plant boasts of unique aesthetic value konjacme.com is one of the few places where you can obtain the live tuber, home-grown right here in the USA!!!
Etymology:
Amorphophallus konjac boasts of diverse aliases such as Voodoo Lily, Elephant Yam, and Devil's Tongue. The scientific name has been in place since 1858. Konjacs and their congeners are so named due to the prominent, spadix protruding from their inflorescence (amorpho = shapeless + phallus)
Physical Description:
The plant’s single stock (up to 40”) emerges from a semi-spherical tuber then splits into a “tri-branched” leaf. The leaf itself is composed of a myriad of leaflets, attaining a maximum diameter of 6 feet. Throughout the growing season the stalk and leaf aid in the accumulation of starches in the tuber. After the growing season, the leaf recedes to allow for a single inflorescence of unmatched beauty.
Additional Facts:
The konjac plant has been known for many centuries to possess unique dietary benefits. This has led to extensive culture in eastern Asia, where it originates. Konjac products are imported in processed forms from China and Japan and can be found in many Asian-American supermarkets. Althought the plant boasts of unique aesthetic value konjacme.com is one of the few places where you can obtain the live tuber, home-grown right here in the USA!!!
Planting Directions The Amorphophallus Konjac is a delicate perennial. The tuber is generally dormant when planted. At the end of each growing season, the plant stalk dies down. The nutrients and water stored in the plant goes into the tuber for dormancy. Around the month of April, the tuber will usually form some growth.(Usually an indicator to plant) The tuber will grow most efficiently in a pot. Well drained soil will work best. A mixture of potting soil and 10%-20% sand works best. (This allows for good drainage) The tuber should be planted at the end of April, beginning of May. (Depending on if it's a late winter) The tuber should be planted 3-8" under the soil. The plant will grow best in partial sun to partial shade. The tuber should be watered lightly until the plant starts to appear. When the plant becomes visible, it needs to be watered at least once a day to allow for rapid seasonal growth. The tuber can grow 1-3 times it's size in one season if properly cared for. If the plant is not hardy for the particular zone (below 6a), the tuber must be dug up after the first frost. The leaf will die back and the plant will become a tuber. After the tuber is dug up. It should be stored in a cool dry place indoors. |
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