Arisaema costatum

Physical Characteristics

Arisaema costatum is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.6 m (2ft) by 0.4 m (1ft 4in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7. It is in flower from June to July. The species is monoecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but both sexes can be found on the same plant) and is pollinated by Flies. The plant is not self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in full shade (deep woodland) semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

E. Asia - Himalayas in C. and E. Nepal.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Dappled Shade; Shady Edge; not Deep Shade;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Root Edible Uses: Root - cooked. It is boiled, dried and then ground into a powder[2, 177]. The tuber is 3 - 5cm in diameter[266]. Some caution is advised, see the notes above on toxicity.

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

The plant contains calcium oxylate crystals. These cause an extremely unpleasant sensation similar to needles being stuck into the mouth and tongue if they are eaten but they are easily neutralized by thoroughly drying or cooking the plant or by steeping it in water.