Dragon Arum Lily: A Fascinating and Exotic Plant
Introduction
Dragon arum lilies, also known as voodoo lilies, snake lilies, and stink lilies, are unique and captivating plants that add a touch of drama and excitement to any garden. Their unusual appearance and intoxicating fragrance make them a favorite among gardeners and plant enthusiasts alike.
What is a Dragon Arum Lily?
Dragon arum lilies (Dracunculus vulgaris) are deciduous tubers that produce large, finger-like aroid leaves of glossy light green. The leaves are arranged in groups of three and are perched atop thick stalks decorated with a snakeskin pattern.
The most striking feature of the dragon arum lily is its flower, which consists of a spadix and a spathe. The spadix is a deep purplish-black spike that is nestled in the center of the spathe. The spathe is a large, maroon-colored leaf that unfurls and cradles the spadix.
How to Grow a Dragon Arum Lily
Despite their exotic appearance, dragon arum lilies are surprisingly easy to grow. They are native to the Balkans, Greece, Crete, the Aegean’s, and temperate to cool parts of the Mediterranean. This means that they can withstand and thrive in USDA zones 5 to 8.
To grow a dragon arum lily, simply plant the tuber at least 4 inches below the surface of the soil in fall. Make sure the soil is well-draining and loose. You can choose a semi-shady or sunny location, but in full sun, they will need more water.
Water the dragon arum lily regularly so that the soil stays moderately damp several inches down. However, make sure the area isn’t soggy, as this will likely rot the tuber.
In early spring, the dragon arum lily will begin to sprout from the earth in a cone shape. Flowers will appear at the end of summer, and then the plant will die back in fall.
Dragon Arum Lily Care
Dragon arum lilies are relatively low-maintenance plants. They are remarkably resilient and will come back year after year, either from spreading tubers or from seed.
One thing to keep in mind is that the dragon arum lily’s flower gives off a noxious odor when ripe for up to 3 days. Therefore, it is best to plant it at the edge of the garden and away from open windows and doors.
To prevent seedlings from popping up everywhere, gather up the large red seeds before they plant themselves. Use gloves, as the plant is toxic.
Long-Tail Keywords
- How to grow a dragon arum lily in a cooler temperate climate
- What is the difference between a dragon arum lily and a voodoo lily?
- How to prevent dragon arum lilies from stinking
- Where to plant dragon arum lilies in your garden
- How to care for dragon arum lilies in the winter
- What are the different types of dragon arum lilies?
- How to collect dragon arum lily seeds
- How to use dragon arum lily seeds to grow new plants
- How to harvest dragon arum lily tubers
- How to store dragon arum lily tubers
- How to plant dragon arum lily tubers
- How to water dragon arum lilies
- How to fertilize dragon arum lilies
- How to mulch dragon arum lilies
- How to divide dragon arum lilies
- How to replant dragon arum lilies
