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No Quibble GuaranteeHow to grow Dracunculus
Dracunculus make an intriguing focal point - the impressive, unique magnificence is displayed throughout late spring and summer. Commonly known as the Voodoo Lily or Dragon Arum, they are easy to grow, tuberous perennials with large, blousy, tropical-looking leaves and robust, dramatic-looking flowers.
A long, upright spadix is surrounded by a large, hooded flower that closely resembles a dragon’s tongue. The scent, emitted from the unfurled flower could be described as pungent, so it is best not to plant too near a walkway. Admire the impressive blooms at a distance, as Dracunculus grow to an approximate height of 1-1.2m and spread of 1m.
Please take care when handling Dracunculus, as they are highly toxic if ingested into your system.
Key Information
Soil pH
Position
Hardiness
Where & when to plant Dracunculus
Dracunculus are best planted in moist, well-drained soil of sand, clay, loam or chalk within a neutral, acidic or alkaline PH balance. Dracunculus perform best in an area of full sun but will also tolerate regions of part shade and will grow well within a sheltered woodland or at the base of a sunny wall. The flowers make unusual arrangements.
How to plant Dracunculus
Plant the tubers in autumn or spring, with the flat side facing upwards, approximately 15cm deep, leaving plenty of room for the optimum spread to be reached. If planting in heavy clay, add a handful of horticultural grit to the bottom of the hole to aid drainage. Also happy to be grown in large containers with good drainage, so can be moved and enjoyed in varying areas.
What to plant with Dracunculus
Being distinctly tropical and dramatic, continue the exotic feel by growing with Callistemon Mini Red, or under the long leaves of Banana Musa Basjoo with Fritillaria imperalis maxima Rubra beneath.
How to care for Dracunculus
During active growth, keep the soil moist and fertilise every two weeks during spring and summer with a balanced fertiliser. After the flowering period, stop feeding Dracunculus to allow the plant to go dormant. Reduce your watering schedule, keeping the soil just moist but not waterlogged.
Hardy to around -5°C, protect from extreme cold with a 10cm deep mulch of straw or organic matter. Refrain from lifting the bulbs, as it can be detrimental to flowering the following season.
How to propagate Dracunculus
It is possible to propagate Dracunculus by separating offsets in the autumn and spring.
