perennial

Chinese Cobra Lily

Arisaema lobatum

The Story

Plant Bio

Arisaema lobatum is a perennial tuberous plant distinguished by its unique, often lobed or divided foliage and striking spathe and spadix flowers that emerge in spring and summer.

This species is notable for its distinctive, deeply lobed leaves and its adaptability to shaded, woodland environments, making it a popular choice for shade gardens.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesIntriguing foliage and unique flowers add exotic appeal.
Practical UsesPrefers damp soils, helping to stabilize moisture levels.
Ecological BenefitsProvides habitat for woodland insects and pollinators.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

18 inches

Width

12 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moist

Humidity

High

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

China

Toxicity

All parts are toxic if ingested

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck seeds into moist soil in early fall for natural stratification.
  2. Keep soil consistently moist during active growth period.
  3. Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and promote rooting.
  4. Plant in shaded or partially shaded location with rich, well-draining soil.
  5. Mulch around the base to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
  6. Divide clumps in early spring for propagation every 3–4 years.

Pro Tip

Use shaded, moist areas with rich soil for best growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
  • Mulch to conserve soil moisture
  • Divide clumps every few years

Don't

  • Avoid dry or overly sunny locations ❌
  • Don’t let soil dry out completely
  • Refrain from using heavy, poorly draining soils

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
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

Shaded woodland borderMoist, shady garden bed

Companion Plants

Hostas Ferns AstilbeSolomon's Seal

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Chinese Cobra Lily questions

What zones can Chinese Cobra Lily grow in?

Chinese 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 Chinese Cobra Lily deer resistant?

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

When does Chinese Cobra Lily bloom?

Chinese Cobra Lily 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 Chinese Cobra Lily need full sun?

Chinese Cobra Lily does best in part shade.

Keep exploring

Grow Chinese Cobra Lily 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.