perennialN. America Native

Ribbed Cobra Lily

Arisaema costatum

The Story

Plant Bio

A tuberous perennial from the Himalayas, typically producing a single, large leaf composed of three leaflets with deeply impressed veins. It is grown for its dramatic inflorescence (spathe and spadix).

The spathe is a deep chocolate-purple with thin white stripes, wrapping around the spadix which has a long, thread-like appendage extending from the tip.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesAdds exotic, lush foliage and unique flowers to shaded gardens.
Practical UsesPrefers moist, well-drained soil, ideal for rain gardens.
Ecological BenefitsSupports native woodland ecosystems and beneficial insects.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

15 inches

Width

12 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Medium

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Himalayas

Toxicity

All parts contain calcium oxalate crystals and are toxic if ingested

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck corms 4-6 inches deep in well-draining soil.
  2. Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
  3. Mist foliage during dry spells for optimal growth.
  4. Provide partial shade to protect from harsh afternoon sun.
  5. Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
  6. Divide clumps every 3-4 years in early spring for propagation.

Pro Tip

Ensure soil is rich in organic matter for healthy foliage and flowers.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Plant in well-draining soil 🌱
  • Keep soil moist during active growth
  • Provide partial shade for protection

Don't

  • Avoid waterlogging, which can cause root rot ❌
  • Don’t expose to full, harsh sunlight
  • Refrain from disturbing tubers during dormancy

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Fertilize
Mulch
Pest Check
Plant

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shade garden bedWoodland borderMoisture-loving garden corner

Companion Plants

Ferns Hostas Astilbes Trilliums

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Ribbed Cobra Lily questions

What zones can Ribbed Cobra Lily grow in?

Ribbed 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 Ribbed Cobra Lily deer resistant?

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

When does Ribbed Cobra Lily bloom?

Ribbed Cobra Lily typically blooms in late spring to early summer through mid-spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Ribbed Cobra Lily need full sun?

Ribbed Cobra Lily does best in part shade.

Keep exploring

Grow Ribbed 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.