About
Arisaema consanguineum, the Himalayan cobra lily, is one of the most impressive of the genus � a stately, tuberous perennial to around 1 m tall with a single, umbrella-shaped leaf of 11�20 long, tapered leaflets and a dramatic, dark purple-brown spathe marked with fine green and white stripes in summer. Bold, architectural, and unforgettable in a moist, shaded border.
About the genus
Arisaema are mostly tuberous perennials with palmately or pinnately lobed leaves and distinctive tubular, hooded spathes enclosing the tiny true flowers clustered at the base of the spadix. Spikes of red berries follow the flowers. They grow in moist, shaded woodland conditions.
Growing conditions
SunlightPartial shade
Soil typeClay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, North-facing, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH3
Plant details
Plant typeBulbs
HabitColumnar upright
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesArchitectural, City and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden
Native toHimalaya to SE Asia
ToxicityHumans/Pets: Harmful if eaten, skin/eye irritant. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling For further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
Care notes
CultivationGrow in moist but well-drained, humus-rich soil in a cool site. Tubers must not dry out when dormant, and may need winter protection in colder areas
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed, sowing them in containers in a cold frame in autumn or spring, or remove offsets in late summer
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to slugs and vine weevil
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free