Helicodiceros muscivorus (L.f.) Engl.

• Genus: Helicodiceros
• Botanical Background: First described by (L.f.) Engl. in 1879, the genus authority Schott ex K.Koch recognized its unique inflorescence morphology within Araceae.

• Geographical Range: Endemic to western Mediterranean islands—Corsica, Sardinia, and Balearics.
• Environment: Terrestrial geophyte thriving in rocky limestone or granite crevices on coastal cliffs under full sun to light shade, with well‑drained soils and dry summer climate.

Leaves

• Deeply divided, duck‑foot–shaped blades emerging early spring
• Green with faint spotting

Inflorescence (Spadix & Spathe)

• Large horizontal spathe (20–40 cm) colored flesh‑pink with purple speckles
• Hairy spadix emits putrid odor and heat (~10–20°C above ambient) to lure flies

Growth Habit

• Terrestrial, seasonally dormant tuberous geophyte reaching ~30 cm tall
  

Light Requirements

• Bright, indirect light
• Tolerates part‑sun outdoors
  

Watering & Humidity

• Moderate watering
• Allow soil to dry between waterings
• Average indoor humidity sufficient 

Soil & Potting Mix

• Fast‑draining mix (peat‑based with perlite)
• 3–4 L pot to accommodate tuber
  

Temperature & Fertilizer

• Ideal 15–25 °C
• Feed monthly with balanced liquid fertilizer during active growth (spring)

Division

• Divide offset tubers in early spring before leaf emergence

Seeds

• Viable but slow
• Sow fresh seed in spring in moist, well‑drained mix
• Germination in 2–3 months

Typical Issues

• Watch for mealybugs, spider mites, root rot (from overwatering)

Treatment Recommendations

• Use insecticidal soap or neem oil for pests 
• Repot and reduce watering if root rot appears

• Only Araceae species that mimics carrion both olfactorily and thermogenically

• Cultivated as a conversation‑piece novelty plant prized for unusual flower form and scent

Wild Population Status

• Not currently assessed by IUCN
• Restricted island endemic with stable populations on core islands

Market Availability

• Rare in commerce
• Available from specialty nurseries in temperate climates