Dragon-arum
Arisaema dracontium
Last reviewed: June 2026
Arisaema dracontium (Dragon-arum) is a native woodland forb found across eastern and central United States. This shade-tolerant plant blooms in May and June with distinctive green spathes.
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.
Growing Dragon-arum
Grow Dragon-arum in part shade and medium water. Mature plants reach 12 to 36 inches tall and spread 6 to 12 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
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.
Common questions
- Where does Dragon-arum naturally grow?
- Dragon-arum is native to much of the eastern and central United States, from Maine south to Florida and west to Minnesota, Kansas, and Texas.
- When does Arisaema dracontium bloom?
- Dragon-arum typically blooms in May and June, producing its characteristic hooded spathe before the leaves fully expand.
- What pollinates Dragon-arum?
- Dragon-arum is primarily pollinated by beetles, which are attracted to the plant's distinctive spathe and spadix structure.
- What growing conditions does Dragon-arum prefer?
- This woodland native thrives in partial shade to full shade with medium to moist soil conditions, making it ideal for naturalized woodland gardens.
- Is Dragon-arum HOA-friendly?
- Dragon-arum takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
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.
Ready to grow Dragon-arum? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz