About
This tropical tuberous perennial, with divided, glossy green leaves. Flowers are sometimes followed by clusters of orange berries. Mature plants produce perfumed white spathe flowers, brushed with green on the outside and with a pale cream or yellow spadix, at the tips of the stems in spring or early summer. Plants are summer dormant, starting growth in late autumn.
About the genus
Dracunculus are tuberous deciduous perennials with attractive leaves divided into several narrow, finger-like segments, and dramatic, foul-smelling, arum-type flowers in spring or summer; the plant dies down after flowering
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeLoam
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH1C
Plant details
Plant typeBulbs, Conservatory Greenhouse
HabitColumnar upright
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesBorders, containers, naturalising in grass.
Native toCanary Islands, Madeira
FragranceFlower
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 under glass in a fertile, moist but well-drained potting mix in sun or part shade; keep above 5°C. Ideal for a cool greenhouse
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed or by division. Mature plants produce stolons that develop into new shoots and tubers
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free