perennial

Silver Speckled Cobra Lily

Arisaema lobatum 'Silver Speckled Leaves'

The Story

Plant Bio

Arisaema are tuberous perennials, commonly called cobra lilies or Jack-in-the-pulpits, known for their exotic spathe and spadix flower structures and often dramatic foliage.

This cultivar is particularly valued for its unique silver-speckled leaf pattern, which adds ornamental appeal even when the plant is not in bloom, making it a standout in woodland and shade garden settings.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesAdds exotic appeal with striking foliage and flowers, enhancing shaded garden areas.
Practical UsesPrefers moist, well-drained soil, tolerates wet conditions, reducing garden maintenance.
Ecological BenefitsProvides habitat and food for pollinators and wildlife, supporting local biodiversity.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

18 inches

Width

8 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moist, well-drained

Humidity

Moderate to high

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

East Asia

Toxicity

Toxic if ingested

Bloom period

Late spring

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D

In flower about 1 month of the year

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck seeds into moist soil in fall for natural stratification
  2. Plant tubers 2 inches deep in well-draining soil
  3. Water regularly during active growth, especially in dry spells
  4. Apply mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds
  5. Divide clumps every 3–4 years in early spring or fall
  6. Protect from harsh winter winds with mulch or cover

Pro Tip

Plant in shaded areas with rich, moist soil for best growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water consistently to keep soil moist 🌱
  • Mulch to conserve moisture and regulate temperature
  • Divide clumps in early spring for propagation
  • Monitor for pests and treat organically if needed

Don't

  • Avoid overexposing to direct sunlight ❌
  • Don't let soil dry out completely
  • Refrain from heavy fertilization that can cause rot
  • Never transplant during peak flowering

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Divide
Fertilize
Mulch
Pest Check
Plant

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shaded woodland borderWildlife-friendly garden bed

Companion Plants

Hostas Ferns Astilbes Trilliums Solomon's seal

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Silver Speckled Cobra Lily questions

What zones can Silver Speckled Cobra Lily grow in?

Silver Speckled 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 Silver Speckled Cobra Lily deer resistant?

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

When does Silver Speckled Cobra Lily bloom?

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

Does Silver Speckled Cobra Lily need full sun?

Silver Speckled Cobra Lily does best in part shade.

Keep exploring

Grow Silver Speckled 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.