Typhonium

Typhonium is a genus of flowering plants in the family Araceae, commonly known as stink lilies or Japanese jack-in-the-pulpit. These plants are native to tropical and subtropical regions of Asia and Australia. Typhonium species are herbaceous perennials that typically grow from corms. They are characterized by their distinctive spathe and spadix inflorescence, which often has an unpleasant odor when in bloom, attracting pollinators like flies.

The leaves of Typhonium are usually simple or lobed, and their shape can vary significantly between species. The spathe, a modified leaf that encloses the spadix, can be brightly colored or dull, and its form is often a key characteristic for identification. The spadix is a fleshy spike bearing numerous small flowers. After flowering, Typhonium plants produce berries.

Several species of Typhonium have been used in traditional medicine in their native regions, although their toxicity and potential medicinal properties require careful study. The genus is closely related to Arisaema, another genus of aroid plants known for their jack-in-the-pulpit structures. Due to their unique appearance and the characteristic scent of their flowers, Typhonium species are of interest to botanists and plant enthusiasts.