Devil's Tongue
Amorphophallus rivierifam. Araceae
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Pl. 17C4 — Amorphophallus rivieri
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IOverview
Overview
Devil's Tongue, scientifically known as Amorphophallus rivieri, is a perennial plant native to the South-Central regions of China. This plant thrives in light conditions ranging from full sun to partial shade and prefers moist soil that is well-drained, making it suitable for environments with medium fertility. Standing at about 0.8 meters tall, Devil's Tongue is known for its edible roots, which are a notable feature distinguishing it from other Amorphophallus species. Its adaptability to various light conditions and moisture levels makes it an interesting addition to gardens seeking both ornamental value and culinary use.
Quick answers
What is Devil's Tongue?
Devil's Tongue, scientifically known as Amorphophallus rivieri, is a perennial plant native to the South-Central regions of China. This plant thrives in light conditions ranging from full sun to partial shade and prefers moist soil that is well-drained, making it suitable for environments with medium fertility.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Devil's Tongue (Amorphophallus rivieri) thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist, well-draining soil that is light or sandy. It grows up to 0.8 meters tall and is hardy in temperate regions with a range of zones 10-11. For best results, keep the soil consistently moist and provide ample sunlight. Propagate through division of rhizomes, ensuring healthy growth points are included for successful new plants. The edible parts are the roots, which can be harvested after the plant has matured.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Hardiness
10-11
Life cycle
Perennial
Mature size
0.8 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Devil's Tongue for the first time
8steps
Devil's Tongue is a straightforward perennial for beginners, focusing on basic care and patience.
- 1
What you'll need
A Devil's Tongue bulb, potting soil, a container with drainage holes.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring when the risk of frost is low.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use light, well-draining soil. Ensure your container has adequate drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Place the bulb with its roots down into the center of the pot. Cover with a few centimeters of soil.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep the soil consistently moist and place in partial shade to avoid scorching.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun once established, keep soil moist but not waterlogged. Fertilize sparingly with a balanced fertilizer.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune dead leaves and spent flowers to maintain the plant's health. Harvest roots after 2-3 years of growth.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, not providing enough light once established.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:roots
Edible uses: The Devil's Tongue, or Amorphophallus rivieri, is edible and its roots are the part consumed. Typically, these roots can be prepared in various ways—raw, cooked, or dried. They add a unique flavor to dishes when incorporated either fresh or after being processed into other forms.
Other uses:Pest controlFragrance
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
1 native · 9 introduced
Distribution
1 native · 9 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 1 native· 9 introduced
Asia6 regions
native (1)China
introduced (5)ChinaPhilippinesSouth KoreaThailandVietnam
Broader regions
introduced:East Himalaya, Nansei-shoto
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Araceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Araceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
XII
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 17c4d076-5301-4050-be0b-8b8a8d81e43b
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