1 named cultivar

‘Baguo’Arisaema heterophyllum Baguo

perennial

Japanese Cobra Lily

Arisaema heterophyllum

Same species

1 named cultivar

‘Baguo’Arisaema heterophyllum Baguo

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

48 inches

Width

15 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moist, well-drained

Humidity

High

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

East Asia

Toxicity

Yes

The Story

Plant Bio

A tuberous perennial featuring a single, tall stalk that holds a solitary, large leaf. The leaf is radially-palmate, composed of 11-21 narrow, radiating leaflets, resembling an umbrella. Most noted for its unusual flower, which has a green to purplish-brown, hooded spathe. From within the spathe emerges a very long, thread-like spadix appendage that can extend 12-18 inches, creating a dramatic, whip-like appearance. Showy red berries may follow in late summer.

Uses & Benefits:

Adds unique, exotic appeal to shaded gardens with its striking tubular flowers.

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

Supports shade-loving pollinators and maintains soil moisture levels.

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into moist soil in fall for natural stratification.
Water regularly to keep soil evenly moist, especially in dry periods.
Mulch around the plant to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Provide shaded location with well-draining, rich soil.
Divide clumps in early spring every 3-4 years to propagate.
Remove dead leaves in late fall to maintain plant health.

Pro Tip

Ensure shaded, moist soil for healthy growth and vibrant blooms.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water consistently to keep soil moist 🌱
Mulch to conserve moisture and regulate temperature
Plant in shaded or dappled sunlight areas

Don't

Avoid dry, sunny spots ❌
Don’t let soil dry out completely
Refrain from disturbing the tubers during dormancy

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shaded woodland borderMoist, shaded garden bed

Companion Plants

Ferns Hostas Astilbes Japanese painted fern Ligularia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Japanese Cobra Lily questions

What zones can Japanese Cobra Lily grow in?

Japanese 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 Japanese Cobra Lily deer resistant?

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

When does Japanese Cobra Lily bloom?

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

Does Japanese Cobra Lily need full sun?

Japanese Cobra Lily does best in part shade.