Contents
Description
Arisaema Dracontium, commonly known as the green dragon or dragon root, is a herbaceous perennial plant native to North America. It belongs to the family Araceae, which includes other well-known plants such as the peace lily and the elephant ear. The plant’s scientific name, Arisaema Dracontium, is derived from Greek words “aris,” which means a kind of arum, and “haima,” which means blood. This is in reference to the plant’s peculiar appearance, which resembles a dragon’s tail covered in blood.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Arales |
| Family | Araceae |
| Genus | Arisaema |
Appearance
The Arisaema Dracontium plant has a unique appearance that makes it stand out in any garden. It can grow up to 4 feet tall and has a single stem with large leaves that can grow up to 2 feet long. The leaves are shaped like an arrowhead and are a bright green color. The inflorescence of the plant is located at the top of the stem and consists of a green or purple spathe that surrounds a spadix. The spadix is covered in tiny flowers that are either male or female. The plant produces a large berry that is bright red in color and contains several seeds.
Care Guide
The Arisaema Dracontium plant is relatively easy to care for and can thrive in a variety of conditions. Here are some tips to help you care for this plant:
Water: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant regularly, especially during the growing season.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Soil: The plant prefers well-draining, nutrient-rich soil. A mix of peat moss and perlite works well.
Sunlight: The plant prefers partial to full shade. Direct sunlight can damage the leaves.
Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Arisaema Dracontium plant is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can still be affected by the following:
Slugs and snails: These pests can damage the leaves and flowers of the plant. Use a commercial slug and snail bait to control them.
Root rot: This disease can occur if the soil is too wet or if the plant is overwatered. Ensure the soil is well-draining and avoid overwatering the plant.
Habitat
The Arisaema Dracontium plant is native to North America and can be found growing in the wild in damp, shady areas such as woodlands, swamps, and wet meadows. It prefers soil that is rich in organic matter and can tolerate a wide range of pH levels.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Arisaema Dracontium plant?
A: Water the plant regularly, especially during the growing season. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Q: Does the Arisaema Dracontium plant prefer shade or sunlight?
A: The plant prefers partial to full shade. Direct sunlight can damage the leaves.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for the Arisaema Dracontium plant?
A: The plant is hardy in zones 4-9.
Q: Can the Arisaema Dracontium plant be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown indoors as long as it is placed in a location that receives partial to full shade and is kept moist but not waterlogged.
Related Plants
- Arisaema triphyllum
- Arisaema candidissimum
- Arisaema sikokianum
- Arisaema fargesii
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Arisaema Dracontium. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=285116&isprofile=0&
- North Carolina Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox. (n.d.). Arisaema Dracontium. Retrieved from https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/all/arisaema-dracontium/
- The Spruce. (2021). Arisaema Dracontium: Growing Green Dragon. Retrieved from https://www.thespruce.com/growing-arisaema-dracontium-1402137
