Amorphophallus paeoniifolius, commonly known as elephant foot yam, is a perennial herb native to tropical rainforests and monsoon forests of Southeast Asia, including the islands of Southeast Asia, South Asia, Madagascar, New Guinea, and the Pacific islands. It is known for its large, edible tubers, which are a staple food in many cultures. The plant can reach up to 6 feet (1.8 meters) in height and 3 feet (0.9 meters) in width. The inflorescence is particularly notable for its size and color, featuring a large, purple spadix and spathe, and it blooms annually. The flower emits a strong, pungent odor that attracts pollinators such as carrion flies. This species is deciduous, with a dormant period after flowering where the leaves die back.

Elephant foot yam is valued for its edible tubers, which are high in carbohydrates and can be used similarly to potatoes. It is also used medicinally in some traditional practices. In cultivation, it requires a warm, humid environment with indirect light and well-draining soil. It is often grown in home gardens and on a larger scale for its tubers. Overwatering should be avoided to prevent tuber rot. While it is not commonly grown for ornamental purposes due to its odor when flowering, the foliage is quite attractive, with large, broad leaves. Potential problems include tuber rot and leaf blight. It is important to be aware that Amorphophallus paeoniifolius can be potentially invasive when grown outside its native range due to its rapid growth and ability to outcompete native vegetation.CC BY-SA 4.0