Definition

Noun: * A tropical plant (Amorphophallus rivieri) native to southeastern Asia, characterized by a large, showy, dark red flower structure (spathe) surrounding a central spike (spadix). The plant is cultivated both for its edible underground stems (corms) and as a greenhouse ornamental for its dramatic foliage and unique, though foul-smelling, inflorescence.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The botanical garden's greenhouse features a rare Amorphophallus rivieri in bloom.
  • Farmers in some regions cultivate Amorphophallus rivieri primarily for its starchy corm.

Advanced Usage

• Horticultural Context: The term is used precisely to identify this specific species within the genus , often in scientific, botanical, or specialized gardening discussions.
  • Unlike its more famous relative the titan arum, Amorphophallus rivieri is of a more manageable size for cultivation.

Variants and Related Words

• Konjac (n): A common name for , especially when referring to the edible corm and the flour or jelly derived from it.
  • Konjac flour, made from the corm of Amorphophallus rivieri, is a popular gluten-free ingredient.
• Devil's Tongue (n): Another common name for this plant.
• Voodoo Lily (n): A common name shared by several species, including , referring to the striking and unusual appearance of the flower.
• Spathe (n): The large, often colorful bract that surrounds the spadix.
• Spadix (n): The fleshy central spike bearing the plant's tiny flowers.
• Corm (n): The enlarged, solid underground plant stem used for food storage and propagation.

Synonyms

• Konjac plant
• Devil's tongue plant

Related Phrases

• Konjac flour/gel: The processed product from the plant's corm.
  • The recipe calls for konjac gel, which is made from Amorphophallus rivieri.
• Bloom cycle: Refers to the periodic flowering event, noted for its distinctive odor.
  • The Amorphophallus rivieri has a fascinating but brief bloom cycle.

Noun

1. foul-smelling somewhat fleshy tropical plant of southeastern Asia cultivated for its edible corms or in the greenhouse for its large leaves and showy dark red spathe surrounding a large spadix