Arisaema

If you fancy something a little different in the garden, Arisaema (often called cobra lily or jack-in-the-pulpit) is a real conversation starter. These unusual tuberous plants produce striking, hooded flowers with bold stripes, dramatic colouring and a curious “cobra-like” shape that looks almost tropical — yet many are perfectly happy in a sheltered UK garden.

Arisaemas love a moist, humus-rich soil and do best in dappled shade, making them ideal for woodland borders, under shrubs, or a shady patio corner in pots. Once established they can form handsome clumps of exotic-looking foliage, returning year after year with a real “wow, what is that?!” effect. Pair them with ferns, hostas and spring bulbs for a lush, layered look.