Sauromatum giganteum

Sauromatum or Thyphonium giganteum, sometimes called Arum cornutum, is a curious bulbous plant related to arums that simultaneously develops, in summer, large lush leaves and a rather astonishing inflorescence, in the form of an upright cone called spathe, of a very dark reddish-brown colour. This Himalayan botanical species is one of the easiest to cultivate, as it tolerates cold weather quite well as long as the soil is not waterlogged in winter. You can plant it in shade or partial shade, under trees or along a shaded path where it will surely attract the attention of your visitors.

Sauromatum giganteum belongs to the Araceae family. It is a perennial herbaceous plant with a large rounded and flattened tuber. The vegetation emerges from the ground late, in July, at the same time as flowering, and disappears in autumn. The inflorescence appears at ground level, carried by a short stem. It consists of an elongated cup-shaped colored bract, with undulating edges, about 20cm (8in) long, which opens around a long and slender dark-coloured column called spadix. This spadix bears the true flowers, which are tiny. Although very aesthetic, these flowers emit an unpleasant but short-lived odour, thus attracting a large number of pollinating insects. The flowering is accompanied by very large bright green, veined leaves, resembling those of Colocasia. The leaves are borne by sturdy cylindrical stems, apple green with a purple base, 60-80cm (24-32in) tall.

Plant Sauromatum giganteum in partial shade alongside non-invasive bamboo (Fargesia), hostas, and ferns, at the base of deciduous trees, prominently displayed. You can also plant it against a north or east-facing wall. This unique plant can also be cultivated in a large pot, which allows it to be protected from excessive humidity in winter.