The Story
Plant Bio
Pinellia tripartita is a perennial herbaceous plant characterized by its trifoliate leaves and distinctive spathe flowers that emerge from a tuberous rhizome, often featuring green and white coloration.
This species is valued for its ornamental heart-shaped foliage and its ability to thrive in shaded, woodland garden conditions, making it an excellent ground cover in shaded areas.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
12 inches
Width
8 inches
Light
Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moist
Humidity
High
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Asia
Toxicity
Toxic if ingested
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds or divisions into prepared soil in early spring.
- Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Mist cuttings to increase humidity during propagation.
- Provide shade during hottest part of the day for young plants.
- Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Fertilize lightly in early spring with balanced fertilizer.
Pro Tip
Ensure well-draining, moist soil and partial shade for best growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Keep soil consistently moist 🌱
- Provide partial shade in hot climates
- Mulch to retain moisture
- Divide clumps every 2-3 years
Don't
- Allow soil to dry out completely ❌
- Expose to direct, harsh sunlight
- Over-fertilize, which can cause legginess
- Neglect watering during dry spells
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| 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
Green Dragon questions
What zones can Green Dragon grow in?
Green Dragon 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 Green Dragon deer resistant?
Yes — Green Dragon is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Green Dragon bloom?
Green Dragon 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 Green Dragon need full sun?
Green Dragon does best in part shade.
More Pinellia to compare
Pinellia tripartita Dragon Tails
Pinellia tripartita 'Dragon Tails'
Silver Dragon Pinellia
Pinellia tripartita 'Silver Dragon'
Free Tibet Green Dragon
Pinellia tripartita 'Free Tibet'
Atropurpurea Green Dragon
Pinellia tripartita 'Atropurpurea'
Yamazaki Pinellia
Pinellia cordata 'Yamazaki'
Pinellia Peltata
Pinellia peltata
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Green Dragon 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.