General Description
Sauromatum guttatum (Wall.) Schott, also known as the voodoo lily or devil's tongue, is a unique plant species that belongs to the Araceae family. It is characterized by its distinctive appearance, strong odor, and impressive size.
Origin and Distribution
Voodoo lilies are native to various regions in Asia, such as India, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Myanmar, and Sri Lanka. They thrive in subtropical and tropical climates, and can be found growing in forests, along roadsides, and near streams and rivers.
Common Names
The voodoo lily is known by different names in different regions. In India, it is called the Himalayan lily or snake lily, while in Nepal, it is known as the kanda or karkalo. In Sri Lanka, it is referred to as the Chinese potato or kondebandiya. In the United States, it is commonly known as the devil's tongue or voodoo lily.
Physical Characteristics
The voodoo lily can grow up to four feet tall and two feet wide. It has large, arrow-shaped leaves that can reach up to three feet in length. The plant produces a single, tall flower that can grow up to two feet high. The flower has a spadix that is surrounded by a spathe, which is usually maroon, green, or black in color.
Uses
The voodoo lily has several uses, both medicinal and culinary. In traditional medicine, the plant is used to treat conditions such as joint pain, asthma, and headaches. It is also used as a natural remedy for insect bites and skin disorders. In cooking, the corms (underground stems) of the plant are used for making curries and pickles, and are considered a delicacy in some regions of Asia.
However, it is important to note that the voodoo lily produces a strong and offensive odor, which is often described as resembling that of rotting flesh. This smell helps attract pollinators, such as flies and beetles, but can also make the plant unsuitable for some people.
Light Requirements
Sauromatum guttatum is a plant that prefers bright but indirect light. It can tolerate some shaded conditions but requires at least six hours of sunlight per day. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature for the growth of Sauromatum guttatum is between 20 and 30 degrees Celsius. These plants grow well in warm temperatures and do not tolerate frost or freezing temperatures. During the dormancy period, keep the plant in a cool, dry place.
Soil Requirements
Sauromatum guttatum requires well-draining soil with high organic matter content. A soil pH range between 5.5 to 7.5 is best for optimal growth. The plant prefers moist soil but does not tolerate water-logged soil.
Watering Requirements
These plants require regular watering, especially during the growing season. Avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry. During winter or the dormancy period, reduce watering.
Fertilizing Requirements
Sauromatum guttatum is a heavy feeder and requires frequent fertilization. Use a balanced fertilizer or a fertilizer with high nitrogen content in the growing season to maintain healthy growth. Reduce fertilization during the dormancy period.
Cultivation methods
Sauromatum guttatum, also known as Voodoo Lily or Devil's Tongue, is a tuberous perennial plant that grows well in warm and humid climates. It can be grown indoors or outdoors, but it requires well-drained soil and partial to full shade. When selecting a planting site, ensure the soil is rich, organic and moist.
The planting hole should be two times the size of the root ball, and the plant should be placed in the hole, so the top of the root ball is at the soil level. Be sure to pat the soil firmly around the root ball after planting. To ensure healthy growth, it is essential to provide the plant with adequate water, fertilization, and pruning.
Watering needs
Sauromatum guttatum prefers its soil damp, and therefore, regular and deep watering is essential. Depending on the weather conditions, it is recommended to water two to three times a week, especially during prolonged drought. To avoid over-watering, it is advisable to touch the top soil and only water when it feels dry. Also, be sure to keep water off the foliage as it might cause damage to the plant.
Fertilization
Sauromatum guttatum requires ample nutrients for the healthy growth of its leaves and underground tubers. Fertilizing is a crucial aspect of cultivating the plant. A balanced, all-purpose fertilizer, with an NPK (nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium) ratio of 10-10-10 or 5-10-5, should be applied every three to four weeks during the growing season. This should be done primarily in the early morning or late evening and never during midday when the sun is the strongest.
Pruning
Pruning Sauromatum guttatum is not necessary for its growth, but it helps in controlling its size and improving its shape and appearance. The removal of dead or damaged leaves should be done as soon as possible to prevent potential health hazards such as fungal diseases and to enhance overall air circulation. It is also essential to remove the flowers once they fade to encourage better growth and prevent the plant from wasting its energy on dead flowers.
Propagation of Sauromatum guttatum (Wall.) Schott
Sauromatum guttatum (Wall.) Schott is a fascinating and unusual plant that is native to the Himalayan region of Asia. It is commonly known as voodoo lily or snake lily and is unique in terms of its propagation methods.
Seed Propagation
The most common propagation method for Sauromatum guttatum is through seed. The seeds should be sown in a well-draining soil mix and kept in a warm and humid environment. It is essential to maintain the moisture content of the soil to ensure that the seeds germinate correctly. The seedlings will take up to three years to develop into mature plants.
Division
Sauromatum guttatum can also be propagated through division. The plant produces corms that can be removed and replanted to start new plants. The optimal time for corm division is early spring, just as new growth is beginning to emerge. The corms should be carefully lifted and separated, and then replanted in pots or the garden.
Offset Propagation
Sauromatum guttatum sometimes produces small offsets that can be used as propagation material. It is important to wait until the offsets have matured and developed their own set of roots before separating them from the parent plant. The offsets can be gently removed and planted in their own container or in the garden.
Conclusion
Sauromatum guttatum is a unique and intriguing plant that requires specific propagation methods to ensure successful cultivation. By using seed, division, or offset propagation, gardeners can enjoy this unusual plant and its fascinating characteristics.
Disease Management
Sauromatum guttatum is susceptible to several diseases, including Fusarium wilt, bacterial blight, Root rot, and Leaf Spot.
Fusarium wilt: This disease causes wilted and yellowing foliage, stunted growth, and eventual collapse of the plant. The fungus responsible for the disease lives in the soil, so infected plants are difficult to save. Affected plants must be removed from the garden and disposed of properly. In crop productions, Fungicide applications can help manage the disease
Bacterial blight: This disease causes irregular, brown to black, water-soaked lesions on the leaves, stems, and inflorescence. It can also cause rotting of the bulbs. Once the plant is infected, it is challenging to manage the disease. However, the disease can be prevented by using bacteria-free bulbs, avoiding overhead watering, providing adequate drainage, and avoiding injuries.
Root rot: This disease causes the rotting of the roots, which makes the plant unhealthy. To prevent root from happening, ensure proper soil drainage, avoid excessive watering, ensure proper aeration, and avoid planting in infected soil. Dipping bulbs in fungicide solutions before planting can also help prevent the disease.
Leaf Spot: This disease causes round to irregular water-soaked lesions on the foliage. The lesions later turn yellow and eventually brown. Prevention and management of leaf spot include avoiding overhead watering, providing adequate spacing between plants, and enhancing air circulation, especially in humid weather. Removal of the infected leaves and proper disposal can also help reduce the spread of the disease. Fungicide applications can also help manage the disease.
Pest Management
Some pests that might affect Sauromatum guttatum include aphids, spider mites, and mealybugs
Aphids: These are small, soft-bodied insects that cluster on young foliage and stems of the plant. They cause stunted growth and yellowing of the leaves. To manage aphids, spray insecticidal soap or neem oil on the plant. Pruning and removal of heavily infested parts of the plant can also help curb the infestation.
Spider mites: These are pests that suck on the sap of the foliage, causing yellowing and wilting of leaves. They also cause webbing on the underside of the leaves. To manage spider mites, ensure proper air circulation and humidity levels. Spraying the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil can help kill the pests.
Mealybugs: These pests cluster on the undersides of the leaves and stems of the plant, feeding on the sap and secreting honeydew. This can cause the leaves to turn yellow and eventually fall off. To manage mealybugs, apply insecticidal soap or neem oil on the plant foliage. Pruning the affected leaves and discarding them properly can also help control the infestation.
Proper inspection of plants regularly, removing weeds, and maintaining good hygiene in the garden can help prevent the outbreak of pests and diseases in Sauromatum guttatum.
