Amorphophallus paeoniifolius is a tropical tuber plant that flowers first and only then produces leaves. Its inflorescence consists of a spathe inside which is a spadix, the spike or cob made up of male and female flowers. The upper section of this spike is a large round purple bud unlike other species where it is more pointed. The leaves look not unlike those of a peony, hence the plant’s name. The flowers emit an unpleasant putrid smell for the first few days after they open.

Plant the tuber in spring in nutritious, well-drained soil. Mix in builder’s sand or seramis to produce better drainage if required. Use a large pot as the plant can grow to a height of more than a metre. To begin with, water sparingly but give it more water as it starts to grow. Fertilise regularly during the growing season. This species is best grown in a conservatory or greenhouse. In summer, it can be placed outside in a position that is warm but no too sunny. In autumn, take the tuber out of the ground and store in a dark, warm and dry place.