perennial

Liuba Cobra Lily

Arisaema ciliatum 'liubaense'

The Story

Plant Bio

Arisaema ciliatum var. liubaense is a perennial plant growing from a tuber, distinguished by its striking, hooded flower (spathe) and a single, large compound leaf with radiating leaflets.

This cultivar is notable for its large, vividly patterned spathes that showcase a unique combination of purple and green hues, making it a distinctive ornamental choice for shaded gardens.

Uses & Benefits:

Adds early spring interest with unique foliage and purple flowers, thriving in shaded, moist gardens.

Prefers wet soils, tolerates clay, and is deer resistant, making it suitable for low-maintenance shaded beds.

Attracts beneficial insects, supporting garden biodiversity.

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

Bloom period

Late spring – Mid-spring

In flower about 12 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into moist soil in early fall
Keep soil consistently moist and well-drained
Provide partial shade for optimal growth
Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds
Transplant seedlings in spring after last frost
Water regularly during active growth period

Pro Tip

Ensure soil remains moist and provide partial shade for best results.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water consistently to keep soil moist 🌱
Mulch to maintain soil moisture and temperature
Divide clumps every 3-4 years for health

Don't

Avoid letting soil dry out completely ❌
Don’t expose to full sun, which can scorch leaves
Never use heavy, waterlogged soil

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

Wet shady borderUnderstory plant in woodland garden

Companion Plants

HostaFerns Astilbe LigulariaJapanese forest grass

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Liuba Cobra Lily questions

What zones can Liuba Cobra Lily grow in?

Liuba 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 Liuba Cobra Lily deer resistant?

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

When does Liuba Cobra Lily bloom?

Liuba 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 Liuba Cobra Lily need full sun?

Liuba Cobra Lily does best in part shade.