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Dragon Lily Wikimedia Commons
Araceae

Dragon Lily

Dracunculus vulgaris

Dark allure and mystery.

Family
Araceae
Genus
Dracunculus
Native to
Southern Europe, Mediterranean, Turkey
Bloom season
Late Spring, Early Summer
Type
Tuberous perennial
Height
0.6-1.5 meters
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade
Soil
Well-drained, fertile
Water
Moderate
Hardiness
5-9
Lifespan
Perennial

Did you know

  • Dragon lily produces one of the most foul-smelling flowers in the Mediterranean, reeking of rotting flesh.
  • The stench attracts blowflies and carrion beetles which become trapped inside the flower to ensure pollination.
  • The dramatic dark purple spathe can reach up to 1 meter in length.
  • The plant generates its own heat during blooming to better volatilize its putrid scent molecules.
  • Despite its terrible smell, it lasts only one to two days before the flower becomes odorless.

Color meanings

0

Attraction

1

Danger

2

Mystery

Uses

  • Ornamental curiosity
  • Botanical gardens
  • Mediterranean gardens