Description
Arisaema griffithii is one of the strangest and most spectacular species of all arisaemas. Its bizarrely shaped spathe and reptilian hood-like spathe-limb do indeed suggest the name cobra lily. The spathe is deep burgundy with fine greenish-yellow markings. An 18 inch long burgundy appendage on the end of the spadix dangles like a thin twisted and kinked thread. The coarse-textured leaves are trifoliate with purple blotches. Native to Nepal, India and Bhutan. 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.
