Dracontium

Dracontium is a genus of herbaceous perennial plants in the family Araceae, commonly known as dragon arums or dragon flowers. The genus is native to the tropical and subtropical regions of Asia. These plants are characterized by their often reptilian-patterned leaves and their unique spathe and spadix inflorescence, which can sometimes resemble a snake's tongue or a dragon's snout, giving rise to their common names.

The leaves of Dracontium species are typically large and compound, often deeply lobed or divided, and emerge from a subterranean corm. The coloration and patterning of the leaves can vary, with some species displaying mottled or reticulated designs that contribute to their camouflage in their natural habitat. The inflorescence appears on a separate stalk from the leaves, often emerging before or after the foliage. The spathe, a modified leaf that encloses the spadix (a fleshy spike bearing small flowers), is usually dark in color, ranging from deep purple to brown or black, and can emit an unpleasant odor when mature, attracting pollinators like flies.

Cultivation of Dracontium is generally limited to botanical gardens and specialized collections due to their specific environmental needs and sometimes challenging cultivation requirements. They prefer well-drained soil, high humidity, and a period of dormancy. Propagation is typically done through division of the corms or by seed, though flowering plants may take several years to mature. The genus Dracontium is relatively small, with only a few recognized species.