Description
This classic form of Arisaema speciosum has a purple and white spathe and a white spadix with a nearly three foot long, dangling, thread-like spathe appendage. It has large trifoliate leaves with red edges that are often dark purple underneath. 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.
