The Story
Plant Bio
Arisaema barnesii is a perennial plant distinguished by its striking, umbrella-like foliage and unique spadix flower structure, often featuring a hooded spathe in shades of green and purple.
This species is notable for its resilience in shaded, woodland environments and its ornamental appeal, making it a favored choice for shade gardens and naturalistic plantings.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
12 inches
Width
8 inches
Light
Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
9, 10
Water
Moist
Humidity
Moderate
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Sri Lanka, Southern India
Toxicity
Toxic if ingested
Bloom period
Early spring – Late spring
In flower about 3 months of the year
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into moist soil in fall or early spring
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity
- Plant in well-drained, rich soil with partial shade
- Water consistently during active growth, about weekly
- Mulch lightly to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature
- Divide clumps every 3-4 years in early spring
Pro Tip
Use organic compost and avoid overwatering to prevent rot
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly to keep soil moist but not soggy 🌱
- Mulch to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds
- Fertilize with organic compost in early spring
- Provide partial shade in hot climates
Don't
- Avoid overwatering in winter ❌
- Do not expose to full sun, especially in hot regions
- Refrain from disturbing roots during dormancy
- Do not use chemical fertilizers excessively
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
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Barnes' Cobra Lily questions
What zones can Barnes' Cobra Lily grow in?
Barnes' Cobra Lily is hardy in USDA Zones 9–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Barnes' Cobra Lily deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Barnes' Cobra Lily, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Barnes' Cobra Lily bloom?
Barnes' 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 Barnes' Cobra Lily need full sun?
Barnes' Cobra Lily 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 Barnes' 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.