Sauromatum giganteum (Typhonium giganteum

Deciduous tuberous species in winter. Fusiform tuber that produces numerous lateral stolons. Ovate leaves, 15-45 x 9-25 cm, hastate, sharp at the apex with long and thin petioles that can reach up to 60 cm in length. Very showy spathe, dark purple in colour, convoluted at the base and a sharp apex often falling inwards. Purple spadix, sessile, shorter than the spathe. The inflorescences appear simultaneously with the leaves. During the winter the leaves dry and fall. The tubers remain in vegetative stasis throughout the winter. Native species of China and Tibet. In nature it grows in prairies, at the edges of fields, on the banks of streams and on grassy slopes below 1500 m. Half-hardy. It requires well-drained soil and a shaded or partial shade position. Water only when the soil has partially dried. Leave dry in winter. Potted plant. The tuber has a diameter of approximately 2 cm.