Arisaema

Arisaema is a wonderful genus containing many garden worthy plants. Commonly known as ‘Cobra Lilies’ due to the reptilian appearance of the spathe in one or two species. A member of the Aroid family (Araceae), however very few aroids match the unique features of the genus Arisaema. The genus is made up of 100 or more species mostly from Asia (Japan and China) and a few into North America.

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They mostly flower in early to mid summer and flowers are often followed by striking red seed pods in autumn. They prefer moist humus rich soil in a semi-shaded position. Many species prefer a dryer rest over the Winter dormancy months. 

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Most Arisaema grow seasonally from an underground tuber, appearing above ground in the spring and dying back for the winter. Some tropical species are evergreen, or may grow from a rhizome. (we don't grow any tropicals luckily...) Despite their tropical appearance, many Arisaema take to outdoors cultivation and prefer cooler temperatures. Arisaema can be found growing from sea level right up to altitudes of over 4000m in the border zone between scrubby plants and true alpines in the Himalaya. So it isn’t surprising that they grow in a wide variety of habitats and that different species are exposed to different conditions in the wild. 

 

One of the most important considerations is to protect Arisaema from harsh, drying sunlight. Cool, dappled shade that is protected from the intense mid-day sun is perfect. Areas under the canopy of spreading trees are often ideal provided that the ground is not bone dry, packed full of tree roots and that the correct soil conditions are met. During winter Arisaema don’t have many overwintering requirements. Obviously, only the below ground parts remain once the foliage has died back, which will regrow again in warmer spring or early summer weather.