Arisaema galeatum

The cobra plant, known scientifically as Arisaema galeanum, is native to the Himalayas and is a large species in the arum family. It produces dark green spathes with a flared, helmet-like appendage at the tip. The flowers grow up to 60 cm (24in) above the ground, sheltered under a textured leaf that sits at a height of 140 cm (55in). These flowers appear in early summer and are followed by a large trifoliate leaf that is pale green with a rose-violet wash. This plant thrives in dappled light and rich, humus soil and can tolerate cold temperatures in well-drained soil.

There are currently over 150 species of Arisaema that are mostly native to Asia. Over half of these species are found in temperate zones and can be easily cultivated in our latitudes. These plants prefer a wooded environment, humus-rich, cool soil but not waterlogged.

The flowers are dioecious, meaning there is only one sex per plant. If a male plant (even of a different species) is planted nearby, the female plant produces red fruits at the end of the season. This plant enters a vegetative rest at the end of summer as a tuber.

The cobra plant is not well-known to gardeners but can be planted in cool, well-drained, and light soil. It can create beautiful and original potted plants paired with ferns, bamboo, hostas, Epimedium, Bégonia grandis, rhododendrons, azaleas, or oriental lilies.