The Story
Plant Bio
Arisaema kishidae is a tuberous, herbaceous perennial from Japan. It features a distinctive 'jack-in-the-pulpit' flower (spathe and spadix) that appears in spring before the leaves fully develop.
This cultivar is celebrated for its variegated, frosted-looking leaves that add ornamental appeal even when not in bloom, making it a popular choice for shaded garden areas.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
12 inches
Width
8 inches
Light
Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moist
Humidity
Moderate
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Japan
Toxicity
Toxic if ingested
Bloom period
Early spring – Late spring
In flower about 3 months of the year
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck bulbs 4 inches deep in well-draining soil.
- Water regularly to keep soil moist but not soggy.
- Provide partial shade for optimal growth.
- Mulch to retain moisture and regulate temperature.
- Allow bulbs to establish for 1 year before heavy watering.
- Divide clumps every 3-4 years in early spring.
Pro Tip
Plant in partial shade with rich, moist soil for best results.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water consistently during growing season 🌱
- Mulch to conserve moisture
- Fertilize in early spring with balanced fertilizer
Don't
- Avoid waterlogging soil ❌
- Don’t expose bulbs to direct, harsh sunlight
- Skip heavy fertilization in late fall
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Plant |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Jack Frost Cobra Lily questions
What zones can Jack Frost Cobra Lily grow in?
Jack Frost Cobra Lily is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Jack Frost Cobra Lily deer resistant?
Yes — Jack Frost Cobra Lily is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Jack Frost Cobra Lily bloom?
Jack Frost 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 Jack Frost Cobra Lily need full sun?
Jack Frost 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
Grow Jack Frost 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.