Description
After several years of propagation this superb species can be released into cultivation in some decent numbers and it is about to become much better known.
The spathe tube is emerald green, the mouth and spathe limb are white. Where the two colours meet there is a gorgeous infusion of violet-pink, which spreads along the edge of the mouth. The spadix is a very deep violet. The pink infusion varies from plant to plant. PBR086 (Maharashtra State, alt ~1000 m, Western Ghats) was a seed collection so the seedlings are variable.
Despite being regarded as a semi-tropical species (and perhaps one best grown in pots before risking it outside) this has been successfully grown outside, for 2-3 years, in N. Carolina, USA. You might risk it in Cornwall or coastal Devon, once you have spare offsets. Well-drained leaf soil in half shade seems perfect. The bright green, 5 or 6 part foliage is wide and attractive and is borne before or with the inflorescence. Grow in a pot or quite deeply planted in a warm, sheltered spot then lift for the winter, or risk it if you wish. Grows from a small tuber only, an inch – 24 mm is a very large one!
