Dominatrix Alert: Arisaema thunbergii ssp urashima

What is one to think? A garden writer posting about a dominatrix! In the garden no less! Perhaps I should clarify the title of this posting…..

The 35cm dusky purple stalk of Arisaema thunbergii ssp. urashima is topped with one horizontal leaf consisting of between eleven and fifteen leaflets, radiating outwards from a u shaped base. In mid-Spring the ‘flower’ or spathe emerges from the main stalk. The wonderfully mottled coloration of the base of the spathe is further accentuated by the deep purple, near black hood that tapers to a delightful point! From within this appendage emerges its whip like spadix that extends upwards to a length of almost 38centimeters which gives this sublime beauty its well-deserved dominatrix moment if ever there was one! ‘Urashima’ unlike some of its Asian cousins responds well to average to dry woodland conditions, and when happy is known to produce numerous offsets! Perfect for those who want to share their dominatrix tendencies with other gardeners!

Have I mentioned how thrilled I am to have the opportunity to grow and share these most sinisterly alluring garden treasures with fellow woodland gardeners? Of course, I have to mention that ‘sikokianum’ continues to captivate its audience that includes not only this overzealous gardener, but his sister, brother-in-law and two nephews as well:

I made mention of its resemblance to a cowl necked sweater in yesterday’s post – perhaps this photo better illustrates the point. I am amazed at the size of the spathe and spadix – a dramatic increase inside of twenty four hours!

Looking for the perfect Easter gift for the garden enthusiast in your life? Look no further. Both of these intoxicating species are available in limited quantities from LittleTree Garden Market. Tell the staff you read about it here!