Dracunculus Canariensis
Dracunculus canariensis Kunth
Dracunculus canariensis, the Canary Island Dragon Arum, is a rare and enigmatic tuberous perennial endemic to the Canary Islands and Madeira. Unlike its dark and pungent relative Dracunculus vulgaris, it produces elegant fragrant white spathes with a pale cream or yellow spadix, symbolizing mystery, rarity, and hidden elegance.
Araceae (Arum family)
Spring to early summer (March to June); plant is summer dormant
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: white bat orchids and darlingtonias also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
Dracunculus canariensis occupies a special place in the botanical heritage of the Macaronesian islands, where the ancient laurisilva forests of the Canary Islands and Madeira represent one of the last remnants of the subtropical forests that once covered much of southern Europe and North Africa before the ice ages. As an endemic plant restricted to this unique island ecosystem, the Canary Island Dragon Arum is a living symbol of ecological rarity and the extraordinary biodiversity of island evolution. The genus name Dracunculus derives from the Latin for "little dragon," associating all members of the genus with the mythological power and mystery of dragon imagery. Unlike its malodorous mainland relative, the fragrant white-spathed Canary Island species carries an air of refined, almost paradoxical elegance within a genus otherwise known for foul-smelling blooms.Shop Our Floral Collection
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Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; in cultivation under glass in cooler climates, maintain minimum 5 degrees C (41 degrees F)
Water
Consistent moisture during the growing season (autumn to late spring); keep completely dry during summer dormancy to prevent tuber rot
Soil
Fertile, Moist, Well-drained, Humus-rich, Slightly acidic
Expert Growing Tips
In temperate climates, grow in a cool greenhouse or conservatory in fertile, moist but well-drained compost
Keep plants above 5 degrees C (41 degrees F) at all times; frost will damage or kill the tubers
Allow the plant to go fully dormant and dry in summer; resume watering in early autumn when new growth appears
Unlike Dracunculus vulgaris, this species produces fragrant rather than foul-smelling flowers
Handle with care: all parts are harmful if eaten and the sap is a skin and eye irritant; always wear gloves
Propagate by division of tubers during dormancy in summer, or carefully by seed
The RHS has detailed cultivation notes for growing under glass in the UK
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Collector's specimen plant for botanical gardens and specialist collectors
- Exotic accent plant for sheltered subtropical gardens
- Container plant overwintered under glass in temperate climates
- Shade and woodland garden planting in mild, frost-free regions
- Conversation piece plant due to its rarity and dramatic appearance
Traditional Uses
- No significant documented medicinal uses specific to Dracunculus canariensis
- Note: all Araceae family members contain calcium oxalate crystals; harmful if eaten; handle with protective gloves
Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Dracunculus Canariensis
How is Dracunculus canariensis different from Dracunculus vulgaris?
Dracunculus canariensis, the Canary Island Dragon Arum, produces fragrant white to cream spathes and is restricted to the Canary Islands and Madeira. Dracunculus vulgaris, the common Dragon Arum, has a dramatic deep purple-black spathe and an intensely foul smell designed to attract carrion flies as pollinators. The Canary Island species is considerably rarer and more delicate in cultivation.
Is Dracunculus canariensis fragrant?
Yes, unusually for its genus, Dracunculus canariensis produces fragrant white flowers rather than the foul-smelling, insect-attracting blooms characteristic of Dracunculus vulgaris. The RHS describes it as producing fragrant white spathe flowers, making it a much more pleasant garden plant than its mainland relative.
Is Dracunculus canariensis toxic?
Yes, like all members of the Araceae family, Dracunculus canariensis is harmful if eaten and the sap can irritate skin and eyes. The plant contains calcium oxalate crystals. Always wear gloves when handling and keep away from children and pets.
How do I grow Dracunculus canariensis?
In temperate climates, grow Dracunculus canariensis under glass in a cool greenhouse or conservatory in fertile, moist but well-drained compost. Maintain a minimum temperature of 5 degrees C (41 degrees F). Allow the plant to go completely dry in summer dormancy, then resume watering in autumn. It can be grown outdoors year-round only in mild, frost-free subtropical climates.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
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