perennial

Negishi's Cobra Lily

The Story

Plant Bio

A tuberous, herbaceous perennial from Japan, Arisaema negishii emerges in spring with two large, palmate leaves. It is prized for its unique 'Jack-in-the-pulpit' type flower (spathe and spadix) and its preference for shady, moist, woodland conditions.

Features a striking spathe (flower) that is pale green, heavily striped and mottled with dark purple. A key identifier is the extremely long, thread-like appendage extending from the spadix. The two palmate leaves are plain green.

Uses & Benefits:

Adds exotic appeal with lush foliage and striking flowers, especially in shaded gardens.

Prefers shaded, moist environments, reducing the need for watering in such areas.

Supports shade-loving pollinators and enhances biodiversity in woodland gardens.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

16 inches

Width

12 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moist

Humidity

High

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Japan

Toxicity

Yes

Bloom period

Early spring – Mid-spring

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck tubers 2 inches deep in shaded, moist soil
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged
Apply organic mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds
Divide tubers every 3–4 years in early spring or fall
Protect from excessive drought and direct sun
Mist foliage during dry periods for increased humidity

Pro Tip

Plant in shaded areas with rich, moist soil for best growth

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Keep soil consistently moist 🌱
Apply organic mulch annually
Divide tubers in early spring or fall

Don't

Avoid direct sunlight in hot climates ❌
Do not let soil dry out completely
Skip fertilizing during dormancy

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Divide
Fertilize
Mulch
Plant
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shaded woodland borderMoist garden bedFoliage contrast in shaded borders

Companion Plants

HostaFerns Astilbe Trillium Ligularia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Negishi's Cobra Lily questions

What zones can Negishi's Cobra Lily grow in?

Negishi's Cobra Lily is hardy in USDA Zones 6–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Negishi's Cobra Lily deer resistant?

Yes — Negishi's Cobra Lily is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Negishi's Cobra Lily bloom?

Negishi's Cobra Lily typically blooms in early spring through mid-spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Negishi's Cobra Lily need full sun?

Negishi's Cobra Lily does best in part shade.