Dragon arum (Dracunculus vulgaris)
Care, watering, light and tips for Dragon arum on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Araceae
- Difficulty: Demanding
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Indirect light
- Temperature: 15–30 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Dragon arum
Dracunculus vulgaris, also known as "Dragon Arum" or "Voodoo Lily", is a fascinating tuberous perennial plant from the Araceae family, renowned for its spectacular and exotic bloom. It features a dark purple to reddish-brown spathe (bract) enclosing an elongated spadix, emitting a strong, foul odor to attract pollinators. This plant is a bold and striking choice for botanical gardens, rare plant collections, or as a focal point in a rock garden, provided its scent can be managed during flowering.
Native range
Mediterranean region: from Southern Europe (especially the Balkan Peninsula and Greece) to Turkey and the Aegean islands.
Care tips
This plant thrives in full sun to light partial shade and well-drained soil rich in organic matter. Watering should be moderate during the growing season, significantly reduced once the plant enters dormancy. It is crucial to avoid waterlogging, as its tubers are prone to rot. A common mistake is planting it in a location where its strong odor during flowering can be a nuisance, so it is advisable to place it away from windows or frequently trafficked areas.
How to save a dying Dragon arum
- Warning signs
- Soft, yellowing leaves or drooping stems. Its characteristic rotten meat smell (flower) is absent.
- First aid
- Check substrate. If waterlogged, remove, clean roots, repot in dry, well-draining soil. If dry, water gently.
- What kills it
- Overwatering and poor drainage, causing tuber rot. Also, extreme cold.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if the tuber is not completely rotted. Act quickly at the first symptoms.