Cobra Lily or Jack in the Pulpit Species.
Arisaema are varied a group of woodland plants and this tells us a lot about How to Grow Arisaema Species.
Most prefer a cool semi-shaded position and moderately rich soil, species include the attractive Arisaema candidissimum (picture right lower) with scented flowers and great foliage which lasts through summer and Arisaema sikokianum with its glowing white spadix hooded and fascinating. Much sought after is the lovely A. griffithii a little rare in cultivation.
With over 100 species most are from Asia, it was Arisaema triphyllum, that was first described by botanist Thomas Nuttall in 1818.
From North America it is Arisaema triphyllum, commonly known as the jack-in-the-pulpit that is most widely grown, another Arisaema dracontium is commonly called dragon-root.
Arisaema serratum – Commonly known as “kuzu,” it grows in forested areas in Japan and other areas of Asia and is recognizable by its unique inflorescence.
A. japonicum is native to Japan, and grows in moist, shaded forests as do many species.
Arisaema amurense – Found in various regions, this species features distinctive spathes and adapts well to shaded habitats.
A. candidissimum is one of the more widely grown species within the genus, primarily found in the mountainous regions of China and parts of Southeast Asia, including Bhutan and Nepal.
With striking pink white spathes that has a real presence in the shade garden, and again it typically grows in shady, moist forest environments.
These bulbs are also referred to as ‘Cobra lilies’ and ‘Jack in the Pulpit’, but with so many species the botanical names are best used.
As with Arisaema ringens, variety also exists with species including flower colour and foliage colour.
How to Grow Arisaema – Growing tips and Basic Care
Growing Arisaema – The Basics
Although they look like exotic plants, when we look at how to grow Arisaema, we find that many species are in fact very easy.
Arisaema are not difficult to grow in the cooler temperate areas of Australia, 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.
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.
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.
How to grow 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.
More Bulb Resources
Arisaema bulbs and plants are available for sale from the following nurseries
412 James Lane, Fern Hill VIC. 3458 - Phone 0419002651
Large range of Rare plants, Climbers, Bulbs, Perennials Fruit Trees, Ornamental Trees and Shrubs. Available both Retail and by Mail Order
www.whitehousenursery.com.au
Large variety of Epimediums, Woodland plants and Herbaceous perennials
Mail order or nursery. We do not send to Tasmania or WA
www.cloverhillrareplants.com
'Sylvan Vale' 375 Olinda Creek Rd, Kalorama, VIC.3766
Including a large range of Rare and unusual bulbs, corms and perennials
www.tonkinsbulbs.com.au
125 Palmer Rd Jindivick 3818
Open Thursday - Sunday 10am - 4pm
Specialising in growing and selling Rare and Unusual Trees, shrubs Perennials Bulbs and Climbers, a unique nursery with amazing stock.
www.muskersbroughtonhall.com.au
PO Box 7040 Leura NSW 2780
Rare woodland plants, Trilliums Epimediums, Arisaemas, plus much more.www.lynnsrareplants.com.au