Arisaema thunbergii

From the southern islands of Japan, this has much-divided glossy leaves and a very long, black whip-like spadix snaking out from the purple-brown speckled spathe. Dramatic and always popular. Early mid-season. Needs rich well-drained soil in shade. 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.