Arisaema costatum

The bold spathe of Arisaema costatum is burgundy-purple with white stripes. The tip of the spathe-limb has a long, often twisted, thread-like appendage that dangles to the ground. The trifoliate leaf has raised veins and purple wavy margins. From Nepal and Tibet. Arisaema are known as cobra lilies or jack-in-the-pulpits. There are only two North American species but many in Asia. They grow in moist, shaded, forested habitats and are great for adding cool foliage and floral intrigue in the shade or woodland garden where they can rise up and through other shade plants. In colder climates they can be grown in pots and protected in winter. Keep just above freezing. In pots, plant in a moist but free-draining mix of coarse bark and pumice or perlite. Pull back on watering when dormant.