Cobra Lily 'Silver Center'

Arisaema sikokianum 'Silver Center' is a highly sought-after and exotic-looking tuberous perennial that adds a touch of mystery to woodland gardens in the UK. This cultivar is prized for its dramatic hooded spathes, which are a deep, dark purple-brown on the outside and a brilliant, contrasting white on the inside, often with a silver-variegated splash on the leaves. The central spadix is pure white and club-shaped, giving it an architectural presence. It typically grows to 30-45cm tall. In the British climate, it requires a cool, shaded spot and soil that stays moist during the summer but is exceptionally well-drained in winter to prevent the tuber from rotting. It is generally hardy (H4) but benefits from a thick mulch in winter to protect it from extreme frost. Since it goes dormant relatively early in the summer, it is often planted alongside ferns or hostas that can fill the space later in the season.

Sun: Partial shade to full shade.

Soil: Deep, moist, organic-rich soil.

Hardiness: H4 — down to −10°C.

Flowering: Apr, May.