With a flower head that resembles that of a cobra Arisaema ringens is a standout plant for a shaded garden.
This is a species that comes in two forms, one with a spadix thats is a very deep purple, the other with a green spadix.
It will grow well in the garden in a woodland situation, it is equally at home in a container.
The foliage lasts well through summer and over time the plant will form an attractive clump.
Care
A moist yet well drained soil and good dappled shade are the keys to growing this plant.
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- In the garden dig the soil over well before planting. Add some well rotted compost and cow manure.
- Bulbs should be planted at around 10 cms (4 inches) deep.
- Water in with a liquid seaweed fertiliser.
- Mulch lightly.
- In containers use a good quality potting mix and plant in the same manner as in the garden
Arisaema ringens – Japanese Cobra Lily Summary Growing Conditions
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Light
Best grown dappled shade.
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Water
Keep moist yet never wet and soggy.
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Fertiliser
A liquid fertiliser applied every 3 weeks after the first shoots appear will be adequate in good soils.
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Propagation
Arisaema ringens can be propagated from seed, or you can divide established clumps.
Summary Information
- Botanical Name – Arisaema ringens.
- Common Name – Japanese Cobra Lily
- Family – Araceae
- Position – Full sun to a little shade.
- Soil – Well drained, humus rich soils.
- Height – To around 30cm (12 inches)
- Spread – To around 40 cm (15 inches)
- Growth rate – Medium.
- Flowers – Dark purple, to mid green spadix depending on the form.
- Flowering time – Spring to summer.
- Foliage – Mid to deep glossy green.
- Frost tolerant – Yes.
- Drought tolerant – Medium, once established.