Green Dragon (Arisaema dracontium)

Green Dragon

Arisaema dracontium

Its hooded spathe coils like a dragon’s tongue, a quiet woodland wonder. Deciduous perennial herb; common name: Green Dragon.

Partial sun
1–2/week
Moderate
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Dappled shade or partial sun; avoid direct midday sun which can scorch delicate foliage
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Watering Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; allow the top 2 cm of soil to dry slightly between waterings
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Temperature Hardy to cool temperate climates; tolerates mild winter frost, prefers daytime temperatures between 15–25°C during growth
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Single, large palmately compound leaf with 7–15 radiating leaflets on a central stalk
  • Flower: Hooded green spathe coiled at the tip, enclosing a long slender spadix (dragon's tongue)
  • Stem: Smooth, upright green stem supporting the single leaf and inflorescence
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Care Guide

Watering

Maintain even soil moisture during active growth periods

Fertilization

Apply diluted organic feed once monthly. Use low-nitrogen organic feed to promote healthy foliage and flowering

Composted leaf mold tea:Steep fully composted leaf mold in water for 24 hours; dilute 1:20 for root drench to enrich soil without burning delicate roots
Pruning
  • Remove yellowing foliage after it dies back in late autumn to reduce disease risk
  • Cut back spent flower stalks after flowering to redirect energy to root development
  • Clear surrounding debris in early spring to improve airflow around emerging shoots
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Toxic; calcium oxalate crystals cause oral pain, drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing

Humans: Contains calcium oxalate crystals; ingestion causes oral irritation and mild gastrointestinal distress

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental woodland garden plant; historically used in limited traditional Indigenous medicine (not recommended for human consumption)