Dracunculus vulgaris aka Dragon Lily

Taxonomy

Genus Dracunculus Family Araceae Order Alismatales Class Liliopsida Phylum Tracheophyta
Dracunculus vulgaris, also known as the common dracunculus, dragon lily, dragon arum, black arum, voodoo lily or vampire lily, is a species of aroid flowering plant in the genus Dracunculus and the arum family Araceae. It is an herbaceous perennial that is endemic to the Balkans, extending as far as Greece, Crete, and the Aegean Islands, and also to the south-western parts of Anatolia. The plant produces one massive purple bloom with a black spadix, which is held within a large colorful leaf. Its long spadix is viewed as a small dragon hiding in the spathe, which is why it is called drakondia in Greece. However, the plant emits an unpleasant smell akin to rotting fish when in bloom, so it is not recommended to plant it too close to windows or passersby. Despite the smell, D. vulgaris is easy to grow and thrives at temperatures between 50 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. It creates a show-stopping display and provides an impressive focal point in your landscaping.

Common names

Dragon Lily, Dragon Arum, Devil's Tongue

How to care for Dragon Lily

Difficulty

Dragon Lily requires a bit more attention and knowledge to thrive, making it a suitable plant for those with some gardening experience.

Water

Dragon Lily should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Lighting

Dragon Lily requires abundant, bright and direct light. Placing it less than one foot from a window is the best way to make sure the plant receives enough light to survive and thrive. Depending on your region, however, the current weather can affect the placement of the plant in your home. For example, in some areas the sun may be too direct and intense, so it's best to place it farther away from the window. You may also need to adjust your placement according to the season as the sunlight can change intensity over the course of the year. If you live in a region with significant temperature fluctuations, such as a desert, you may need to place the plant a bit farther away from the window to avoid extreme heat or cold. With some care and attention, your Dragon Lily will be sure to bring you many years of beauty and enjoyment.

Toxicity

Ploi does not possess verified information regarding the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event that you, a member of your family, or a pet ingests plant material with an unclear toxicity level, it is highly recommended to seek the advice of a medical professional.

Growth-pattern

New growth will sprout from the top of the plant as it grows upwards.

More info:
Wikipedia