Arisaema are not difficult to grow in the cooler temperate areas of Australia and some species thrive in harsher climates. As a rule most are summer flowering and many arisaema have fascinating flower forms, Arisaema are well worth a place in the collectors garden.
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Arisaema and sex.
Some arisaema are male, some are female, some are both, and some change back and forth. Most are male when seedlings and then they turn female later in life. |
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Where to grow Arisaema
In general Arisaema prefer a well drained humus rich soil, they do not like to be water logged, however excessive drying can cause the bulbs to remain dormant. We suggest that you don't water in winter, wait until they show signs of growth. Growth requirements differ according species, Arisaema candidissimum prefer full sun. Arisaema flavum prefers part shade. Himalayan species such as A. speciosum like to remain moist even in dormacy.
Growth cycle of Arisaema
The main period of growth for Arisaema is from spring through to summer depending on species, when they put on strong new root growth, produce new leaves and flower.
Arisaema are best divided in late winter to early spring when the growth cycle commences. This helps prevent bulbs rotting.
Maintenance tasks
Very little to do with Arisaema. Divide once the clump becomes to large
Fertilising
In pots a controlled release fertiliser is best. In the ground we mulch lightly and use a liquid fetilizer made from worm castings and water.
Pests and diseases
Not much to worry about with arisaema, we use potash or sawdust to keep the snails away.
Arisaema in pots
Arisaema do well in pots as long as you take care of moisture requirements for individual species. Remember that arisaema bulbs can become quite large, so you may need to repot.
