Description
Arisaema nepenthoides is a handsome Himalayan species with a striped and spotted purple and white spathe. The junction between the spathe-limb and the spathe-tube is deeply auricled (eared) presenting a most intriguing inflorescence. The short, stubby spadix is white and the foliage deep glossy green and heavily textured. Arisaema nepenthoides is a tall species to at least four feet and is one of the earliest to emerge, usually in March. The stems are orange with purple mottles. 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.
