The Story
Plant Bio
Arisaema speciosum is a perennial tuberous plant distinguished by its striking, umbrella-like foliage and unique, hooded flowers that often display striking patterns and colors, making it a popular choice for shade gardens.
Notable for its very large, deep purple-maroon and white-striped spathe. The spadix ends in a long, thread-like appendage that can hang down several feet. Its single, large leaf is trifoliate with reddish margins.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
30 inches
Width
18 inches
Light
Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moist
Humidity
Moderate
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Himalayas
Toxicity
Yes
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck rhizomes 2-3 inches deep in moist, well-drained soil
- Mist cuttings or water regularly during active growth
- Plant in shaded or partially shaded areas for best results
- Mulch to retain soil moisture and regulate temperature
- Protect from strong winter winds and frost
- Divide clumps every 3-4 years in early spring
Pro Tip
Ensure soil remains consistently moist and shaded for optimal growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
- Mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds
- Plant in shaded areas to prevent leaf scorch
Don't
- Avoid direct sunlight which can scorch leaves ❌
- Do not let soil dry out completely
- Avoid heavy, compacted soils which hinder root growth
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
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Himalayan Cobra Lily questions
What zones can Himalayan Cobra Lily grow in?
Himalayan 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 Himalayan Cobra Lily deer resistant?
Yes — Himalayan Cobra Lily is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Himalayan Cobra Lily bloom?
Himalayan Cobra Lily typically blooms in late spring through mid-spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Himalayan Cobra Lily need full sun?
Himalayan Cobra Lily does best in part shade.
More Arisaema to compare
Japanese Cobra Lily
Arisaema ovale
Jack-in-the-pulpit
Arisaema triphyllum
Nebraska Green Dragon
Arisaema dracontium 'Nebraska'
Farges' Cobra Lily
Arisaema fargesii
Arisaema engleri Green Spathe Form
Arisaema engleri 'Green Spathe Form'
Japanese Jack-in-the-Pulpit
Arisaema serratum
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Himalayan Cobra Lily with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.