The Story
Plant Bio
Arisaema franchetianum, or Franchet's Cobra Lily, is a tuberous perennial noted for its single, large, trifoliolate leaf and a dramatic hooded flower (spathe). The spathe is typically deep purple-brown with white stripes.
Cultivar Hugo is distinguished by its particularly vibrant and contrasting coloration, along with robust growth habit and increased resilience to varying soil conditions.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
12 inches
Width
8 inches
Light
Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Consistent moisture, avoid waterlogging
Humidity
Prefers moist, humid environments
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
East Asia
Toxicity
Toxic to humans and pets if ingested
Bloom period
Late spring – Late fall
In flower about 7 months of the year
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck tubers in well-draining soil in early spring
- Water consistently to keep soil moist but not soggy
- Place in partial shade for best foliage development
- Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds
- Fertilize lightly in early spring with balanced fertilizer
- Monitor for pests and remove any affected leaves
Pro Tip
Plant in partial shade with rich, moist soil for optimal growth
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
- Mulch to retain moisture and regulate temperature
- Fertilize lightly in early spring
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent tuber rot ❌
- Do not expose to direct, harsh sunlight
- Refrain from heavy fertilization
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Plant |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Franchet's Jack-in-the-Pulpit questions
What zones can Franchet's Jack-in-the-Pulpit grow in?
Franchet's Jack-in-the-Pulpit is hardy in USDA Zones 6–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Franchet's Jack-in-the-Pulpit deer resistant?
Yes — Franchet's Jack-in-the-Pulpit is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Franchet's Jack-in-the-Pulpit bloom?
Franchet's Jack-in-the-Pulpit typically blooms in late spring through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Franchet's Jack-in-the-Pulpit need full sun?
Franchet's Jack-in-the-Pulpit does best in part shade.
More Arisaema to compare
Japanese Cobra Lily
Arisaema ovale
Jack-in-the-pulpit
Arisaema triphyllum
Himalayan Cobra Lily
Arisaema consanguineum
Arisaema engleri Green Spathe Form
Arisaema engleri 'Green Spathe Form'
Nebraska Green Dragon
Arisaema dracontium 'Nebraska'
Japanese Jack-in-the-Pulpit
Arisaema serratum
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Franchet's Jack-in-the-Pulpit 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.