perennial

Japanese Cobra Lily

Arisaema ovale

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

12 inches

Width

12 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moist but well-drained

Humidity

High

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Japan

Toxicity

All parts are toxic if ingested

The Story

Plant Bio

A tuberous, herbaceous perennial from the aroid family, typical of the genus Arisaema. It produces a single stalk with one or two palmately compound leaves and a characteristic 'jack-in-the-pulpit' flower, consisting of a hooded spathe surrounding a central spadix. Native to Japan, this species is distinguished by its broadly ovate spathe blade (the 'hood') which gives the species its name 'ovale'. The spathe is typically green, sometimes striped with purple. In late summer, it produces a dense cluster of showy, bright red berries.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Adds unique, exotic foliage to shaded gardens, providing year-round interest.

Prefers moist, well-drained soil, helping improve garden soil conditions.

Supports native pollinators and beneficial insects in shaded habitats.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

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Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into moist soil in fall for natural stratification.
Plant rhizomes 2-3 inches deep in well-draining soil.
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Gradually expose to more sunlight as plants establish, in spring.
Divide clumps every 3-4 years in early spring or fall.

Pro Tip

Plant in shaded areas with rich, moist soil for best results.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water consistently to keep soil moist 🌱
Mulch to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature
Monitor for pests and remove affected parts

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Don’t expose to direct, harsh sunlight initially
Refrain from heavy fertilization in first year

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 shaded garden bed

Companion Plants

ferns Hosta Astilbe

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 4–9. 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 early 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.