Pinellia pedatisecta (Chinese Green Dragon) Tubers

Pinellia pedatisecta, commonly called Chinese Green Dragon, is an unusual woodland perennial grown for its dramatic foliage and distinctive arum-like flowers.

The plant produces exotic divided leaves followed by striking green spathes with a curved spadix, giving it a distinctive and unusual appearance in shaded garden areas.

• Height: 20–50cm
• Spread: 30–40cm
• Flower colour: green with pale green tip
• Flowering time: late spring to early summer
• Position: partial shade to shade
• Soil: humus-rich, well-drained soil

About Pinellia pedatisecta

Pinellia pedatisecta is a tuberous perennial belonging to the arum family. It produces distinctive pedate leaves that spread like fingers from the centre of the leaf stem.

These unusual leaves give the plant a strong architectural appearance in woodland planting.

In late spring, the plant produces a green spathe surrounding a slender curved spadix. The flower structure resembles that of Arisaema, which makes this plant popular among collectors of unusual woodland species.

The flowers emerge close to the base of the foliage and add an exotic detail to shaded garden spaces.

Common names include:

• Chinese Green Dragon
• Green dragon arum

Benefits for UK Wildlife

Pinellia pedatisecta contributes to biodiversity in shaded planting areas.

• Provides shelter for insects and small invertebrates
• Supports habitat diversity in woodland gardens
• Works well alongside other shade plants that benefit wildlife

Plant with ferns and woodland perennials to create a layered shade habitat.

Where to Grow Chinese Green Dragon

• Woodland gardens
• Shaded borders
• Under trees and shrubs
• Exotic-style shade planting
• Moist sheltered garden beds

This unusual plant works well in gardens that feature rare or unusual species.

Planting Tips

• Plant tubers in spring.
• Choose a shaded or partially shaded location.
• Use humus-rich soil improved with compost or leaf mould.
• Ensure soil drains well.
• Plant tubers about 5–8cm deep.
• Water during dry periods while plants establish.

Apply a layer of mulch in autumn to protect the tubers and improve soil structure.

Why Grow Pinellia pedatisecta

• Unusual pedate foliage
• Exotic green arum-style flowers
• Ideal for woodland and shade gardens
• Compact size suitable for smaller spaces
• Distinctive collector’s plant

If you enjoy unusual woodland plants, Pinellia pedatisecta brings exotic foliage and distinctive flowers to shaded areas of the garden.