perennial

Green Dragon

Pinellia tripartita 'Atropurpurea'

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

5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moist

Humidity

High

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Asia

Toxicity

Toxic

The Story

Plant Bio

Pinellia tripartita is a perennial herbaceous plant distinguished by its trifoliate leaves and a unique flower structure consisting of a hooded spathe and a long, thread-like spadix. This cultivar is notable for its striking, deep purple spathe (flower hood) which contrasts with the green, three-parted leaves. The spathe has a long, thread-like tip (spadix appendix) that can reach 10 inches long.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides striking purple foliage and unique trifoliate leaves, adding visual interest in shaded gardens.

Prefers shaded, moist environments, ideal for ground cover in difficult shady spots.

Supports shade-loving insects and contributes to biodiversity in woodland gardens.

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 early spring
Keep soil consistently moist for 6 weeks
Place in partial shade with well-draining soil
Water regularly during dry spells
Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds
Divide clumps every 2–3 years for vigorous growth

Pro Tip

Ensure soil remains moist and avoid direct afternoon sun for best results.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
Mulch around plants to retain moisture
Divide clumps every few years to promote health

Don't

Avoid letting soil dry out completely ❌
Don’t expose to full sun, which can scorch leaves
Refrain from over-fertilizing to prevent weak growth

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Divide
Mulch
Plant
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shaded woodland borderGroundcover under tall treesMoist shaded garden bed

Companion Plants

Ferns Hostas Astilbes Heucheras

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 to early summer through late 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.