Dracunculus canariensis

RHS Plant Profile
Canary Island dragon arum
Bulbs Conservatory Greenhouse

A tropical tuberous perennial, with divided, glossy green leaves. Plants are summer dormant, starting growth in late autumn. Mature plants produce fragrant white spathe flowers, brushed with green on the outside and with a pale cream or yellow spadix, at the tips of the stems in spring or early summer. Flowers are sometimes followed by clusters of orange berries

Position

Full sun, Partial shade

Soil Types

Loam

Max Height

0.5-1 metres

Max Spread

0.1-0.5 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
2–5 years
Max Spread
0.1-0.5 metres
Max Height
0.5-1 metres

Growing Conditions

Loam
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid or Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H1C

Colour & Scent

Fragrance Flower
Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Araceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Columnar upright
Potentially harmful
Humans/Pets: Harmful if eatenskin/eye irritant. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling For further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
Genus
Dracunculus are tuberous deciduous perennials with attractive leaves divided into several narrow, finger-like segments, and dramatic, foul-smelling, arum-type flowers in spring or summer; the plant dies down after flowering
Name Status
Correct
Plant Range
Canary Islands, Madeira

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grow under glass in a fertile, moist but well-drained potting mix in sun or part shade; keep above 5°C. Ideal for a cool greenhouse

Propagation

Propagate by seed or by division. Mature plants produce stolons that develop into new shoots and tubers

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Conservatory and greenhouse

Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free