perennial

Japanese Cobra Lily

Arisaema kiushianum

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

15 inches

Width

10 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moist

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Japan

Toxicity

Toxic

The Story

Plant Bio

Arisaema kiushianum is a perennial herbaceous plant with distinctive, umbrella-like foliage and striking spathe flowers that display a combination of green and purple hues, thriving in woodland habitats. Notable for its unique spathe, which has a long, thread-like tip (spadix-appendage) that extends from the hooded flower, resembling a cobra's tongue or a mouse's tail.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Provides exotic, striking foliage and flowers in shaded gardens.

Prefers moist, well-drained soil, ideal for woodland settings.

Supports pollinators attracted to its unique flowers.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds or bulbs into shaded, moist soil
Water consistently to keep soil damp
Mulch around plant to retain moisture
Fertilize lightly in early spring
Divide clumps every 3–4 years in early spring
Protect from direct harsh sun

Pro Tip

Ensure soil remains moist and provide shaded location for best growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
Mulch to retain soil moisture
Divide in early spring to rejuvenate

Don't

Expose to direct full sun ❌
Allow soil to dry out completely ❌
Over-fertilize which can cause rot ❌

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 border with purple accentsMoist woodland garden feature

Companion Plants

Ferns Hostas Anemones Trilliums Japanese maples

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 5–9. 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.