Arisarum vulgare, commonly known as Friar’s Cowl, is an herbaceous perennial native to a variety of habitats in the Mediterranean Basin, including grassy fields, rocky scrubland, and woodlands. It is particularly adapted to moist, shaded areas and can often be found in the understory of forests or in areas with dappled sunlight. This plant typically grows up to 11.8 inches tall and is characterized by its distinctive inflorescence: a purplish-brown striped spathe that resembles a hooded cloak, with a helmet-shaped upper part that encloses the spadix. The foliage consists of arrow-shaped, glossy green leaves that provide a lush ground cover. Arisarum vulgare blooms from October to May, offering a long season of visual interest.

In cultivation, Friar’s Cowl is valued for its unique flower structure and its ability to thrive in part shade to full shade conditions, making it suitable for woodland gardens, shaded borders, and as an underplanting for larger shrubs or trees. It requires consistently moist soil, but good drainage is essential to prevent root rot. While it is not commonly afflicted by diseases, it can be sensitive to overly wet or dry conditions. Friar’s Cowl can spread to form colonies, making it an effective ground cover in suitable climates. However, gardeners should be aware that in some areas it can become invasive and may require management to control its spread.CC BY-SA 4.0