Origin and Common Names
Dracunculus vulgaris Schott, also known as the dragon lily or dragon arum, is a plant species that belongs to the Araceae family. This plant is native to southeastern Europe and western Asia but has been introduced in other parts of the world.
The dragon lily has several common names, including the stink lily, Voodoo lily, snake lily, and dragonwort, among others. These common names refer to the unique characteristics of the plant, such as its foul smell and dragon-like appearance.
General Appearance
The dragon lily is a perennial herb that can grow up to 1.2 meters tall. It has a thick, fleshy stem with several large, green leaves that are divided into several segments. The plant produces a large, cone-shaped, and spiky inflorescence that can reach up to 30 cm in length. The inflorescence is typically dark maroon in color, with a purple-tinged spathe that surrounds the central spadix. The dragon lily produces a strong, unpleasant odor that helps to attract flies and other pollinators to the inflorescence.
Uses
Despite its unpleasant odor, the dragon lily has several culinary and medicinal uses. The young leaves of the plant are edible and can be cooked and eaten as a vegetable. The plant has also been traditionally used in Chinese medicine to treat conditions such as asthma, bronchitis, and sore throat. Extracts from the plant have been found to have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties and have been used to treat wounds and skin infections.
The dragon lily is also a popular ornamental plant, often grown in gardens for its unique appearance and large, showy inflorescence. However, due to its strong odor, it is not suitable for indoor cultivation or small gardens.
Light Requirements
Dracunculus vulgaris Schott, commonly known as the dragon lily, requires bright, indirect sunlight. It can also tolerate partial shade, but direct sunlight may scorch its leaves.
Temperature Guidelines
This plant is best grown in warm temperature range of 18°C-25°C (64°F-77°F). Temperatures beyond this range may result in poor growth and flowering.
Soil Requirements
Dracunculus vulgaris Schott thrives in well-draining soils with excellent aeration. It requires a slightly acidic to neutral soil pH (6.0-7.0) with ample organic matter. A soil mix consisting of perlite, peat moss and loamy soil in equal parts can be used as a potting medium. It does not tolerate waterlogged soils and may suffer from root rot if the soil is not well-drained.
Cultivation
Dracunculus vulgaris Schott, also known as Devil's tongue or Dragon lily, is a flowering plant that grows best in well-draining soil with good moisture retention. It grows from tubers that should be planted in the fall, about 4 inches deep and 6 inches apart.
It prefers a location with partial shade or full sun, especially in cooler regions. In hotter climates, it may need additional shade. It grows up to 4 feet tall and blooms in the late spring or early summer.
Watering Needs
Dracunculus vulgaris Schott needs to be watered regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. During the growing season, water the plant once or twice a week, depending on the weather and soil moisture level.
Reduce watering when the plant starts to die back as it goes dormant for several months. It is important to keep the soil slightly moist to keep the tubers healthy. In winter, water sparingly to prevent rot.
Fertilization
Dracunculus vulgaris Schott grows well in fertile soil and benefits from regular fertilization. Apply a balanced fertilizer, such as 10-10-10 or 20-20-20, before planting the tubers in the fall.
During the growing season, feed the plant once a month with a liquid fertilizer. Stop fertilizing when the plant starts to die back as it goes dormant.
Pruning
Dracunculus vulgaris Schott doesn't require much pruning as it dies back naturally in winter. However, you can deadhead the flowers to encourage more blooms.
In late summer or early fall, cut back the foliage to the ground after it has started to yellow. This promotes the development of stronger tubers that will produce larger plants and better blooms the following season.
Propagation of Dracunculus vulgaris Schott
Dracunculus vulgaris Schott or the Dragon Arum is a perennial plant that can be propagated through various methods.
Seed Propagation
The easiest way to propagate Dracunculus vulgaris is through seed sowing. The seeds are best sown during the autumn season in a well-draining soil mix. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil and keep them moist with regular watering. Keep the soil warm, around 20-25ºC, and the seeds should germinate in around 3-4 weeks. Transplant them to their permanent location once they have developed their second set of leaves.
Division Propagation
Propagation through division is another common method for Dracunculus vulgaris. The plant is best divided during dormant season in autumn or early spring. Lift the plant and gently separate the rhizomes making sure that each division has leaf shoots and a healthy root system. Transplant each division to its preferred location and water well.
Bulbils Propagation
The Dragon Arum also produces bulbils or small bulb-like structures in the leaf axils. These bulbils can be detached once they have reached a good size and replanted in their desired location. Ensure that the bulbils have a small root system and replant them in a well-draining soil mix.
With careful attention to detail, Dracunculus vulgaris can be easily propagated and enjoyed indoors or outdoors.
Disease and Pest Management for Dracunculus vulgaris Schott
Dracunculus vulgaris Schott, also known as the dragon lily or stink lily, is a unique and intriguing plant native to the Mediterranean region. Although it is a sturdy and durable plant, it can still fall prey to various pests and diseases. To maintain the health of your Dracunculus vulgaris Schott plant, it is essential to be aware of the common pests and diseases that can affect the plant and ways to manage them.
Common Diseases
Dracunculus vulgaris Schott is relatively resistant to most plant diseases. However, it may suffer from some fungal, bacterial, and viral infections. The most common diseases that can affect the plant are:
- Leaf spot: This fungal infection causes small, circular spots on the plant's leaves, eventually leading to yellowing and death. Ensure that the plant has adequate air circulation and does not get wet from overhead watering, as it can lead to the development of this disease. Applying a fungicide may help to manage this problem.
- Bacterial Soft Rot: This disease occurs when bacteria enter the plant through damaged tissues. It causes the plant's tissues to turn into a soft, slimy mass, and the leaves to wilt or collapse. To manage this disease, remove and dispose of all the affected parts of the plant immediately and avoid damaging the roots while cultivating.
- Virus infections: Several viruses can infect Dracunculus vulgaris Schott, causing yellow mottling or streaking on the leaves. There is no cure for a viral infection. The only solution is to destroy the infected plant to prevent the spread of the disease.
Common Pests
Dracunculus vulgaris Schott is generally pest resistant, but it can attract a few pests. The most common pests that might affect the plant are:
- Spider Mites: These tiny destructive pests can suck the sap from the plant, causing severe damage. Keep the plant well watered, mist the leaves occasionally, and avoid over-fertilizing, which can attract spider mites. Regular applications of insecticidal soap can also help to manage spider mites.
- Aphids: These sap-sucking insects are common in many plants, and Dracunculus vulgaris Schott is no exception. They can weaken the plant and transmit diseases. Blast them off with a strong stream of water or apply insecticidal soap to manage an infestation.
- Snails and Slugs: These creatures can attach and devour the leaves of the plant. Prevent infestation by eliminating their hiding places, such as weeds or stones. Hand-pick them and dispose of them or apply bait if the population is high.
Inspect your Dracunculus vulgaris Schott plant regularly to catch pest or disease infestations in their early stages before they cause severe damage. Always maintain good cultural practices to keep the plant healthy, such as providing proper watering, good drainage, and adequate air circulation. If you take good care of your plant, it will reward you with years of gorgeous blooms and a fascinating stinky odor.
