1 named cultivar

‘Black Mamba’Black Mamba Arisaema

perennial

Japanese Cobra Lily

Arisaema ringens

Same species

1 named cultivar

‘Black Mamba’Black Mamba Arisaema

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

12 inches

Width

12 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moist

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

East Asia

Toxicity

High

The Story

Plant Bio

Arisaema ringens is a perennial herbaceous plant with distinctive, umbrella-like foliage and striking hooded flowers that are often green with purple markings, providing a unique ornamental appeal. This species is appreciated for its resilience in shaded garden areas and its unusual, eye-catching spathe that resembles a dragon's head, making it a popular choice for woodland gardens.

Uses & Benefits:

Striking hooded flowers add visual interest in shaded garden areas.

Prefers moist, well-drained soils, thriving in woodland settings.

Provides habitat and nectar for early pollinators and insects.

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds in moist soil in early fall for natural stratification
Plant tubers 2-3 inches deep in well-draining soil
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged
Apply mulch around the plant to retain moisture and suppress weeds
Provide partial shade in warmer climates for best growth
Watch for emerging foliage in early spring

Pro Tip

Ensure soil stays consistently moist for healthy growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
Mulch to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature
Plant in partial shade for optimal growth

Don't

Avoid waterlogging the soil ❌
Don’t expose tubers to direct, harsh sunlight in summer
Refrain from over-fertilizing to prevent weak stems

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Plant
Winter Prep

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Woodland garden borderShade garden featureMoisture-loving plant display

Companion Plants

Hostas Ferns Astilbe Ligularia Japanese painted fern

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Japanese Cobra Lily questions

What zones can Japanese Cobra Lily grow in?

Japanese Cobra Lily 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 Japanese Cobra Lily deer resistant?

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

When does Japanese Cobra Lily bloom?

Japanese 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 Japanese Cobra Lily need full sun?

Japanese Cobra Lily does best in part shade.