Description
(Arisaema mayebarae)
Arisaema serratum mayebarae is a Japanese expression of the widespread and variable A. serratum, found in southern Kyushu. It has been regarded as a species, a subspecies and simply a variety, being submerged and resurrected according to botanical whim.
It is differentiated by flowering far earlier than the normal forms of serratum and by the spathe being much longer. In addition, the inflorescence is of a much deeper, more intense shade than typical serratum. Both the spathe and the spadix are selected from the same Gothic palette, in shades of deep and dark, rich red-purple, violet and near-black. The white striping of the typical form is minimal in mayebarae. The inflorescence opens before the foliage is fully expanded and thus it is highly visible. The divided foliage is borne below the “flowers” anyway.
It is a vigorous plant and can, in a very fertile soil, easily reach 100-120cm.
Best out in the garden, in the “light woodland” conditions beloved of many Arisaema. Part shade, in a humus-rich, moist but well-drained soil.
