ARISAEMA: A genus of about 150 species native to eastern and central Africa, Asia and eastern North America. Its species are often called Cobra lilies, particularly the Asiatic species. Arisaemas attract flies and other insects as pollinators. Their leaves are divided into three or more leaflets. The flowers usually arise in spring and consist of a pulpit-like hooded spathe enclosing a fleshy erect spadix. The sexual parts, borne near the base of the spadix, may be male, female, both or neuter, depending on the species and its maturity. Scarlet berries are produced by late summer or autumn which enclose seeds that are distributed by birds and other creatures.

SPECIES DESCRIPTION: Leaves are red or purple rimmed. The aptly named cobra-like flowers have a large, deep purple and white striped/mottled spathe which is incurved and produced near ground level completely hiding the spadix inside.

CULTIVATION: Prefers moist woodland conditions with good drainage and plenty of leaf mould. Requires moisture during the winter as the tuber continues to grow.