Arum italicum, commonly known as Italian arum or Italian lords-and-ladies, is a perennial herbaceous flowering plant native to the Mediterranean region.
Characteristics:
Foliage: Arrowhead-shaped, glossy dark green leaves with distinctive white veining appear in fall and remain through winter.
Flowers:In spring, the plant produces a unique inflorescence consisting of a spadix (a fleshy spike) surrounded by a spathe (a leafy bract). The spathe is usually pale green to creamy white.
Italian arum berries
Fruit:Following the flowers, the plant develops clusters of bright orange-red berries in late summer and autumn.
Growth Habit:
Thrives in partial to full shade.
Prefers moist, well-drained soils.
Spreads by underground rhizomes.
Typically grows 12-18 inches tall.
Cautions:
All parts of the plant are poisonous if ingested.
Can cause skin irritation in some individuals.
Considered invasive in some areas due to its ability to spread aggressively.
Additional Information:
Other Names: Cuckoo Pint, Italian Lily, Orange Candle Flower
Family: Araceae
Origin: Southern and Western Europe
Growing Zones: 5-9
Uses: Ornamental plant in gardens, naturalized areas, and woodland settings.
Italian arum leaves
Invasive Potential:
In some regions, Italian arum has escaped cultivation and become invasive, particularly in the Pacific Northwest of the United States. It can outcompete native vegetation and disrupt ecosystems. If you are considering planting Italian arum, be sure to research its invasiveness in your area and take precautions to prevent its spread.
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