Troubleshooting
Roxburgh's Typhonium problems — and how to fix them
Roxburgh's Typhonium (Typhonium roxburghii) is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Tuber rot from overwatering
The most common problem, especially in winter. The small tubers desiccate less easily than they rot. Keep dormant tubers almost completely dry in frost-free conditions. During the growing season, allow the compost surface to dry slightly between waterings.
Tuber loss in cold storage
Small tubers desiccate quickly if stored too dry or too warm. Store in barely damp vermiculite at 5–10°C, or leave in their pots and stop watering entirely. Check monthly for signs of shrivelling or rot.
Pungent spathe odour
The inflorescence emits a strong unpleasant odour for a short period to attract carrion fly pollinators. This is normal and brief. Bring outdoor pots temporarily indoors only if necessary — repeated moving stresses the plant.
Prevent roxburgh's typhonium problems before they start
Most roxburgh's typhonium issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Roxburgh's Typhonium problems — FAQ
Why is my roxburgh's typhonium tuber rot from overwatering?
The most common problem, especially in winter. The small tubers desiccate less easily than they rot. Keep dormant tubers almost completely dry in frost-free conditions. During the growing season, allow the compost surface to dry slightly between waterings.
Why is my roxburgh's typhonium tuber loss in cold storage?
Small tubers desiccate quickly if stored too dry or too warm. Store in barely damp vermiculite at 5–10°C, or leave in their pots and stop watering entirely. Check monthly for signs of shrivelling or rot.
Why is my roxburgh's typhonium pungent spathe odour?
The inflorescence emits a strong unpleasant odour for a short period to attract carrion fly pollinators. This is normal and brief. Bring outdoor pots temporarily indoors only if necessary — repeated moving stresses the plant.