Cobra Lilies

Arisaema (air-uh-SEE-muh)

Family: Araceae Native Herbaceous (3-15 ft)

Cobra lilies are perennial corm-bearing or rhizomatous herbaceous perennials in the arum family (Araceae). There are at least 260 species, most of which are native to the Himalayas, China and Japan. Some species are found in southern India, Southeast Asia, northeast Africa and North America. They are found in the temperate and tropical areas of those continents. Those native to North America are usually found in moist woodlands and seasonally flooded low woodlands. The name comes from Greek words meaning “arum” (a member of the arum family) and “red,” referring to the red-blotched leaves on some species. The Asiatic species are usually called cobra lilies, while the Western species are Jacks-in-the-pulpit. They prefer humus-rich, moist, well-drained soil in shady areas. Some species do not like moisture during the winter, which could lead to root rot. Plant the corm 3 or 4 inches deep. Occasionally, they may not bloom one year and reappear the next. Propagate by seeds in spring or fall, or by division in spring. Seeds may take 3 to 5 years to flower. Colonies are formed as cormlets spread. They prefer to be left undisturbed. The flower is showy and consists of a spathe and spadix. The spadix is an erect, fleshy stem with small flowers surrounded by a leaf-like sheath (spathe), which often looks like a hood. The spathe may be green or purple with stripes or mottled. Usually, the upper half of the spadix is visible, but others extend several times the length of the spathe. The showy compound glossy leaves grow from a single stalk and some shade the flower like an umbrella. Mature plants may produce a cluster of showy red berries in the summer. Normally, the plant is dormant during the summer. Many of them are deer and rabbit-resistant and tolerant of heavy shade. Even though the root is poisonous, it is used as an herbal medicine when dried and processed. Traditional uses include curing rheumatism, stomachache, liver problems, urinary tract diseases, and as a painkiller. Some species in the Minnesota floodplains are classified as a special concern due to land use changes and loss of habitat. Plant groups in shady woodland, native gardens, or rain gardens. Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: No serious insect or disease problems. The corms are toxic when ingested by humans. Additional Arisaema images at Juniper Lever Botanical Gardens Arisaema (Jack In The Pulpit, Cobra Lily)

Source: NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox ↗ NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox, 59 attributes.