Perennial herb with largest collection of flowers (inflorescence) in the world. Solitary inflorescence with leaf-like structure (spathe) surrounding a fleshy spike (spadix). Spathe approx. 3m in circumference, pale green and spotted white on outside, rich dark crimson colour on inside. Spadix up to 2m tall, dull yellow colour, hollow and expanded at base. Solitary leaf produced after flower, can exceed 4m wide. Leaf stalk (petiole) pale green spotted with white. Pollinated by beetles and flies.