1 named cultivar

‘Nebraska’Nebraska Green Dragon

perennialN. America Native

Green Dragon

Arisaema dracontium

Same species

1 named cultivar

‘Nebraska’Nebraska Green Dragon

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

24 inches

Width

12 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Prefers moist environments

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

North America

Toxicity

Toxic if ingested

The Story

Plant Bio

Arisaema dracontium, or Green Dragon, is a unique woodland perennial featuring a single, deeply divided leaf and a distinctive flower (spathe and spadix). The flower consists of a greenish spathe (hood) from which a long, slender, tongue-like spadix protrudes. The most striking feature is the long, green to yellowish 'dragon's tongue' (spadix) that extends well beyond the spathe. In late summer, it produces a dense cluster of bright red-orange berries.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides unique architectural foliage and early spring interest in shaded gardens.

Toxicity deters herbivores and pests, offering natural garden protection.

Supports native woodland ecosystems by providing habitat and food for insects and birds.

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds in moist soil in fall for natural stratification
Plant rhizomes 2-3 inches deep in rich, well-draining soil
Water regularly to keep soil consistently moist
Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds
Provide partial shade for optimal growth
Avoid overwatering to prevent rot

Pro Tip

Plant rhizomes in fall for best establishment and natural growth cycle.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water consistently during dry periods 🌱
Mulch to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature
Fertilize with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Do not expose to full sun, which can scorch leaves
Refrain from disturbing underground rhizomes during dormancy

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 borderFocal point in shady garden beds

Companion Plants

Hostas Fern species Astilbe Solomon's seal

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 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 Green Dragon deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Green Dragon, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Green Dragon bloom?

Green Dragon 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 Green Dragon need full sun?

Green Dragon does best in part shade.