Dracunculus vulgaris is
spectacular in the garden. But the Voodoo Lily smells like old fish.
It is common for dark flowers like this to attract flies as pollinators.
If given a somewhat remote location in the garden Dracunculus vulgaris will
provide a pleasant and spectacular surprise each Spring. If planted a
little close, like the first time I planted it (under my daughter's
bedroom window) you might receive lots of grief from a spouse or more
tasteful friend. Like many of the Arums
Dracunculus vulgaris will go dormant for much of the year and produce an
extravagant display in the Spring. The Voodoo Lily will produce
flowers in full sun or even in relatively dark shade. Extra irrigation
will make larger plants and they will last a little longer but Dracunculus
vulgaris is fully capable of surviving in our climate. I have had
plants come back after winter temperatures dropped into the low teens for
four successive nights. Dracunculus vulgaris is native to the eastern
Mediterranean. With such a striking aspect it is no small wonder that
I is called by a variety of names, Dragon arum, Dragonwort and maybe most
appropriately Stink Lily.
High resolution images of
Dracunculus vulgaris are available.
