Arisaema barbatum

Arisaema barbatum, commonly referred to as the "whipcord cobra lily" or "bearded cobra lily," is a captivating flowering plant belonging to the Araceae family. Native to the Himalayan region, including India, Nepal, Bhutan, and Tibet, this perennial herbaceous species grows from underground corms. It features a single, upright stem reaching heights of 30 to 60 centimeters (12 to 24 inches) and boasts a distinctive flowers of a plantinflorescence structure that resembles a cobra's hood, earning it its intriguing common name. The a sheathing modified leaf partly enclosing flowersspathe, often green or purplish and intricately patterned, envelops a central fleshy spike of minute flowersspadix. A remarkable feature of Arisaema barbatum is the bearded appearance of the fleshy spike of minute flowersspadix, with tiny hairs, which inspired its species name "barbatum."

Found in moist and shady environments such as forests, forest margins, and understorey regions, Arisaema barbatum thrives in humus-rich, well-drained soils and is often associated with areas of high rainfall. Its intriguing floral display, attracting pollinating flies with an unpleasant odor reminiscent of decaying matter, makes it a noteworthy botanical specimen. Horticulturists appreciate its visual appeal and have cultivated it in temperate to subtropical climates, provided it receives partial to full shade. However, it's important to note that some species within the Arisaema genus contain toxins, and their use in traditional medicine should be approached with caution. Conservation efforts are vital to safeguard this unique species and its natural habitat from threats such as habitat loss due to deforestation and land development.

If you like Arisaema barbatum, you might also like Arisaema sp. "Java" or Amorphophallus annulifer