Arisarum ‘Black Hood’

Common Name:
Arisarum ‘Black Hood’

Description:
Arisarum ‘Black Hood’ is a rare and intriguing woodland perennial prized for its unusual, almost gothic-looking flowers and lush, glossy foliage. The plant features dark purple to near-black, hooded spathes that enclose a pale spadix, resembling miniature cobras or monks’ hoods, giving it an exotic, architectural appeal. These curious blooms emerge in mid to late spring, often hiding just beneath or among the leaves, adding a sense of mystery to shaded garden corners. The foliage is a rich green with a slightly waxy finish, forming neat clumps that can naturalise over time. Arisarum ‘Black Hood’ thrives in part to full shade and prefers moist, well-drained soil rich in organic matter — ideal for Melbourne’s woodland or shaded gardens. It is excellent for underplanting in ferny or semi-tropical schemes and also suits pots or shaded rockeries. Though not fast-growing, it rewards patient gardeners with its unique character and textural interest.

Form:
Shrub - Clumping / Grass-like / Mounding
Ground Cover

Mature Size:
Height: 20–30 cm
Width: 30–40 cm

Aspect:
Part Shade
Full Shade

Flowering:
Flowers in Spring

Flower Colour:
Dark purple (almost black)
Pale inner spadix

Key Attributes:
Suitable for Pots
Perennial
Herbaceous
Suitable for Shaded Gardens
Unusual Flowers
Low Maintenance

Toxicity:
May be toxic if ingested by humans or animals; contains compounds that can cause gastrointestinal irritation.

Companion Plants:
Helleborus (Hellebore)
Hosta varieties
Ferns (e.g., Dryopteris, Polystichum)
Trillium
Epimedium
Bergenia

Plant Growers Australia (PGA) is an innovative wholesale production nursery based in Melbourne, renowned for superior quality garden plants and pioneering breeding programs.
PGA do not sell direct to the public, but their website has detailed information on this species that is available for everyone to access. 
Visit www.pga.com.au for further details and photos of this plant.