Also known as Jack-In-The-Pulpit · Japanese Arisaema
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Arisaema angustatum, the Japanese cobra lily, is a striking woodland perennial known for its hooded spathe and snake-like appearance.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Partial shade
50% intensity
Prefers dappled shade or bright, indirect light. Protect from direct midday sun, which can scorch the leaves.
Consistent moisture during growth, reduced during dormancy
75% intensity
Allow top inch of soil to dry slightly between waterings in summer, but do not let it dry out completely. Significantly reduce watering in fall and winter.
Rich, humusy, well-drained soil
50% intensity
Moderate to cool
50% intensity
Thrives in temperatures between 15-24°C during the growing season. Can tolerate cooler temperatures and requires a period of dormancy in cooler conditions.
Outdoor
50% intensity
Light feeding during growing season
25% intensity
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength monthly from spring through summer. Stop fertilizing as growth ceases.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 5/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 5/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
All parts of the plant are toxic if ingested, due to the presence of calcium oxalate crystals.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Keep the soil consistently moist during the active growing season, avoiding waterlogged conditions. Reduce watering significantly once the foliage begins to yellow and die back in late summer or early autumn.
Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
Remove dead or yellowing foliage as it appears to maintain a tidy appearance and prevent disease. Cut back all spent aerial growth to the ground level once the plant has fully died back in the autumn.
No other pruning is typically required.
Propagation is primarily done by division of tubers during the dormant season (late autumn or early spring). Carefully separate offsets and replant them in well-draining soil.
Seeds can be sown but are slow to germinate and establish.
Repot every 2-3 years or when the tuber outgrows its container, ideally during the dormant period in late autumn or early spring. Use a well-draining potting mix, such as a blend of peat moss, perlite, and compost.
Ensure the new pot is only slightly larger.
Identify plants like this with ePlant AI
Snap a photo to get care tips and match similar species on the go.
Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Japanese Cobra Lily (Arisaema angustatum)
Where Japanese Cobra Lily (Arisaema angustatum) is found
Density
Tap map to explore
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Alismatales |
| Family | Araceae |
| Genus | Arisaema |
| Species | Arisaema angustatum |
Similar in genus Arisaema
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
