Water
Allow the soil to dry out between waterings. While the plant is actively growing, keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Reduce watering significantly during its dormant period in summer and winter to prevent root rot.
Also known as Arum Arrowroot · Black Arum · Devil's-Tongue
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Common Dracunculus (Dracunculus vulgaris) is a striking herbaceous perennial with a dramatic, foul-smelling flower spike, attractive foliage, and a unique appearance.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Prefers full sun to partial shade. In hotter climates, some afternoon shade is beneficial to prevent scorching.
75% intensity
Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings during active growth; significantly reduce in dormancy.
50% intensity
Well-drained
50% intensity
Prefers moderate temperatures during the growing season. Can tolerate some frost but should be protected from hard freezes.
50% intensity
Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer during the growing season; none needed in dormancy.
50% intensity
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 4/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 4/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Toxic if ingested
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Allow the soil to dry out between waterings. While the plant is actively growing, keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Reduce watering significantly during its dormant period in summer and winter to prevent root rot.
Remove dead or spent flower stalks after flowering to maintain a tidy appearance and prevent seed formation if not desired. Cut back any yellowing or diseased foliage as needed throughout the growing season.
Propagate by dividing the corms in late summer or early autumn when the plant is dormant. Replant the divisions immediately into well-draining soil. Seed propagation is possible but can be slower and less reliable.
Repot every 2-3 years or when the plant becomes pot-bound. This is best done in late summer or early autumn during dormancy. Use a well-draining potting mix and a pot with drainage holes.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Common Dracunculus (Dracunculus vulgaris)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Alismatales |
| Family | Araceae |
| Genus | Dracunculus |
| Species | Dracunculus vulgaris |
Similar in genus Dracunculus
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
