About Sauromatum venosum (Dryand. ex Aiton) Kunth
Sauromatum venosum (Dryand. ex Aiton) Kunth is a plant that grows from a corm. It produces an inflorescence first, which consists of a yellowish spathe marked with large purple spots and a purple spadix. A single green leaf develops after the inflorescence has formed. The leaf is held on a tall petiole, and it has 9 to 11 pedate leaflets, each growing up to 40 centimeters in length. Mature flowers of this species give off a strong odor that is described as putrid, and is commonly compared to the smell of rotting meat. This odor attracts pollinating insects like flies, which pollinate the plant. Similar to many other aroids, S. venosum is thermogenic, meaning it is able to generate its own heat. This species is easy to cultivate and is widely grown as an ornamental plant. The Missouri Botanical Garden recommends planting it at a distance from windows and walkways, because its brief but overpowering spadix odor is considered unpleasant when experienced close to these areas.
