perennial

Black Mamba Arisaema

Arisaema ringens 'Black Mamba'

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

East Asia

Toxicity

All parts are highly toxic if ingested, containing calcium oxalate crystals.

The Story

Plant Bio

Arisaema ringens, commonly known as Japanese Cobra Lily, is a tuberous perennial distinguished by its bold, tropical-looking foliage and unique, hooded spathe flowers that are often white with purple markings. The 'Black Mamba' cultivar is renowned for its striking dark, almost black, spathe and distinctive, dramatic appearance that enhances shaded woodland gardens.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Adds exotic, dramatic flair to shaded gardens with its striking purple spathe.

Prefers shaded, moist conditions, reducing the need for watering in such environments.

Provides habitat and nectar for shade-dwelling insects and beneficial pollinators.

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 fall for natural stratification
Plant tubers 2-3 inches deep in partial shade
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not soggy
Apply mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds
Fertilize lightly in early spring with balanced fertilizer
Divide clumps every 3-4 years in early spring

Pro Tip

Prefers consistently moist, well-drained soil in shaded areas for optimal growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Keep soil moist during active growing season 🌱
Mulch annually to retain moisture
Divide plants in early spring to promote healthy growth

Don't

Avoid direct sunlight which can scorch leaves ❌
Do not allow soil to dry out completely
Over-fertilizing can cause legginess

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 borderMoist shady garden bed

Companion Plants

Hostas Ferns Astilbes Solomon's seal Japanese painted fern

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Black Mamba Arisaema questions

What zones can Black Mamba Arisaema grow in?

Black Mamba Arisaema 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 Black Mamba Arisaema deer resistant?

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

When does Black Mamba Arisaema bloom?

Black Mamba Arisaema 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 Black Mamba Arisaema need full sun?

Black Mamba Arisaema does best in part shade.