Dragon-arum
Arisaema dracontium
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
12"–36" H × 6"–12" W
Bloom
May, Jun
Native to
AL, AR, CT, DE and 29 more states
Pollinators
beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Dragon-arum is a unique native woodland plant that produces a distinctive hooded flower spike in late spring, followed by a single large leaf that resembles a small umbrella. The plant goes completely dormant by midsummer, disappearing underground until the following spring.
In an HOA neighborhood
Dragon-arum takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Completely disappears by midsummer leaving bare spots
- Unusual appearance may be considered too exotic or strange
- Single large leaf can look sparse or incomplete
Wildlife value
This plant primarily attracts beetles for pollination with its specialized flower structure. It provides habitat for woodland insects but has limited overall wildlife value compared to other native plants.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does Dragon-arum fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.