About
Dracunculus vulgaris, the dragon arum, is a dramatic, tuberous perennial to around 1 m tall with spectacular, mottled, purple-spotted stems and large, divided, silver-blotched leaves. In spring, an enormous, deep velvety-purple spathe to 60 cm long envelops a blackish-purple spadix, emitting a powerful, carrion-like smell to attract pollinators. One of the most theatrical of all hardy perennials for a warm, sheltered border.
About the genus
Dracunculus are tuberous deciduous perennials with attractive leaves divided into narrow, finger-like segments and dramatic, foul-smelling, arum-type flowers in spring or summer. The plant dies down after flowering and is best sited where its striking foliage and dramatic spathe can be appreciated without the scent causing offence.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing, East-facing, North-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH3
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height1-1.5 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesArchitectural, Cottage and informal garden
Native toMediterranean
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
CultivationPlant tubers 15cm (6in) deep in autumn or spring in humus-rich, well-drained soil that dries out in summer. Grows best in full sun but will tolerate partial shade. Protect with a dry winter mulch. Grows well in in open glades in sheltered woodland or at the base of a sunny wall. Consider the smell of the flowers when siting
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationSeparate offsets in autumn or spring
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free