Troubleshooting
Horsfield's Sauromatum problems — and how to fix them
Horsfield's Sauromatum (Sauromatum horsfieldii) 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
Storing tubers in damp or cold conditions over winter causes rot. Lift tubers after foliage dies back, dry them thoroughly, and store in dry compost or paper bags at 10–15°C.
Unpleasant inflorescence odour
The spathe produces a strong carrion-like scent for 1–2 days to attract fly pollinators. This is completely normal; move the plant outdoors or to a ventilated area during the brief flowering period.
Foliage failure after flowering
Occasionally the tuber expends energy on flowering before producing leaves. Ensure the tuber is healthy and plant in quality compost; leaves typically emerge within a few weeks of the inflorescence.
Spider mites on foliage
Dry conditions encourage spider mites on the large compound leaves. Increase air humidity and treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil if mites are found.
Failure to flower
Small or juvenile tubers may not flower for several years. Allow the tuber to build size over 2–3 growing seasons without dividing.
Prevent horsfield's sauromatum problems before they start
Most horsfield's sauromatum issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Horsfield's Sauromatum problems — FAQ
Why is my horsfield's sauromatum tuber rot?
Storing tubers in damp or cold conditions over winter causes rot. Lift tubers after foliage dies back, dry them thoroughly, and store in dry compost or paper bags at 10–15°C.
Why is my horsfield's sauromatum unpleasant inflorescence odour?
The spathe produces a strong carrion-like scent for 1–2 days to attract fly pollinators. This is completely normal; move the plant outdoors or to a ventilated area during the brief flowering period.
Why is my horsfield's sauromatum foliage failure after flowering?
Occasionally the tuber expends energy on flowering before producing leaves. Ensure the tuber is healthy and plant in quality compost; leaves typically emerge within a few weeks of the inflorescence.
Why is my horsfield's sauromatum spider mites on foliage?
Dry conditions encourage spider mites on the large compound leaves. Increase air humidity and treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil if mites are found.
Why is my horsfield's sauromatum failure to flower?
Small or juvenile tubers may not flower for several years. Allow the tuber to build size over 2–3 growing seasons without dividing.