Cultivation of Dracunculus vulgaris

When I lived in Los Angeles, I just placed some tubers of D. vulgaris in the ground and forgot about them until they sprouted and bloomed.
 
Here in North Texas, the circumstances are a little different (eg. temperatures, humidity, etc.).  I tried growing 7 tubers in containers.  Four sprouted, two did not sprout - but still look viable, and one rotted. 
 
The four that sprouted did so in April - May, looked terrible, and were down within 6 -8 weeks or so.  When do they ordinarily sprout in the Northern Hemisphere?  How long do the ordinarily grow before going dormant again.
 
Is there a particular soil acidity/alkalinity requirement for this species? 
 
I had them in partial shade (early morning only).  Do they require more shade or more sun?
 
I watered them with a weak plant food when I thought they needed it (more often in warmer weather).  Should they be allowed to dry out or should the soil remain moist?
 
Thanks in advance for your suggestions.
 
David Leedy
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