perennial

White Cobra Lily

The Story

Plant Bio

Arisaema album is a perennial, herbaceous plant known for its distinctive, umbrella-like spathe and spadix, with lush green foliage and white flowers that often emerge in early spring.

This species is notable for its striking white inflorescence and its ability to adapt to shaded woodland environments, making it a popular choice for shaded garden beds and woodland gardens.

Uses & Benefits:

Adds unique architectural interest with its distinctive white spadix and lush foliage, perfect for shaded areas.

Provides ground cover in shaded, moist gardens.

Supports shade-tolerant pollinators and beneficial insects.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

12 inches

Width

12 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Requires consistently moist soil

Humidity

Prefers high humidity environments

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Asia

Toxicity

Toxic to humans and pets if ingested

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into moist soil in fall for natural stratification
Keep soil consistently moist, especially in spring
Place in shaded area with well-draining soil
Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds
Monitor for snails and slugs that may feed on young plants
Divide roots every 3-4 years in early spring

Pro Tip

Ensure shaded, moist soil for healthy growth

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
Apply mulch to conserve moisture
Fertilize with a balanced, organic fertilizer in early spring
Monitor for pests and diseases

Don't

Avoid direct sunlight which can scorch the plant ❌
Do not allow soil to dry out completely
Avoid heavy, water-logged soils

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

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

HostaFern Trillium Astilbe Ligularia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

White Cobra Lily questions

What zones can White Cobra Lily grow in?

White 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 White Cobra Lily deer resistant?

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

When does White Cobra Lily bloom?

White Cobra Lily 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 White Cobra Lily need full sun?

White Cobra Lily does best in part shade.