Whipcord Cobra Lily

With an amazing spadix that gives Arisaema tortuosum its common name of ‘Whipcord Cobra Lily’, this is an easy care species with some variation in colour.
It is the unique “whipcord” flower structure, that maakes this such an exceptional plant for shaded, moisture-rich gardens.
With proper watering and appropriate temperature, it makes an interesting addition to temperate and subtropical climates.
Plant it in woodland gardens, the general garden border or in containers, where the flower makes a statement in late spring to summer and the foliage extents the season of interest.
How to Grow Arisaema tortuosum – Basic Care
The best location is a position with partial shade, such as the edge of a woodland garden or a spot with dappled sunlight.
- Planting Depth:
Plant the corms 3–4 inches (7–10 cm) deep, with the pointed end facing upwards. Space plants about 12 inches (30 cm) apart for clumping growth. - Container Planting:
Arisaema tortuosum can be grown in containers with a well-draining mix. Make sure the pot is deep enough to accommodate its root system. - Soil:
Use a well-draining, humus-rich soil for planting. If planting in containers, mix equal parts of potting soil, perlite, and compost for proper drainage and fertility. - Watering:
Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy. Avoid letting the plant dry out during active growth. Hold back on watering during winter months. - Temperature/Humidity:
Thrives in moderate temperatures between 60°F and 75°F (15°C–24°C).
High humidity is preferred, but the plant can tolerate average levels if given adequate watering. - Sun/Light:
Prefers indirect sunlight or filtered light. Too much direct sunlight may scorch the foliage, while too little light can result in weak, leggy growth.
Very deep shade will inhibit flowerind. - Fertilizer:
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to promote healthy growth. Alternatively, you can apply a diluted liquid fertilizer monthly during the growing season. Do not overferilize as this can restrict flowering. - Toxicity:
Arisaema tortuosum is toxic to both dogs and cats
Landscaping and Garden Uses
- Ornamental: Arisaema tortuosum is mainly used for ornamental purposes in shaded or woodland gardens.
- Understory Plant: Ideal for planting beneath larger shrubs or trees, where it can thrive in the dappled sunlight.
- Container Plant: Grow Arisaema tortuosum in a container underplanted with a low growing winter flowerring plant such as Ficaria Brazen Hussy.


Summary Details for Arisaema tortuosum
- Botanical Name: Arisaema tortuosum
- Common Names: Whipcord Cobra Lily
- Origin: Native to the Himalayan region, including parts of India, Nepal, Bhutan, and China.
- Family: Araceae
- Genus: Arisaema Cultivar Name: Varieties may include specific forms, but Arisaema tortuosum is the species commonly available.
- Plant Type: Perennial herbaceous plant
- Exposure/Light: Prefers partial shade to dappled sunlight; can tolerate light to moderate shade.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, rich, loamy soil; slightly acidic to neutral.
- Soil Moisture: Moist, but not waterlogged. Requires consistent moisture, especially during growing season.
- pH Level: Prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 5.5 to 7.0).
- Climate Zones: Suitable for temperate and subtropical climates; also grows in milder parts of the UK and Australia. USDA Zones 7–10.
- Drainage: Excellent drainage is essential to prevent root rot.
- Water Requirements: Moderate to high; needs regular watering, particularly during active growth in spring and summer.
- Height: Typically grows to 18-24 inches (45-60 cm).
- Width: Spreads about 12-18 inches (30-45 cm) when mature.
- Growth Habit: Upright, clumping, with tall stems. The flowers appear in a unique “cobra-like” stance, which is one of the plant’s most distinctive features.
- Flower Colour: The spathe (modified leaf) is usually greenish to purple, often with a white or yellowish interior. The spadix (flower spike) inside the spathe is dark purple or black.
- Flowering Season: Late spring to early summer .
- Fragrance: Insignificant.
- Foliage: Large, deeply lobed leaves resembling those of the arum family, glossy, and bright green. The leaves are usually tri-foliate, creating a tropical appearance.
- Root System: Rhizomatous, forming underground tubers or corms.
- Drought Tolerance: Low
- Lifespan: Long lived Perennial.