Italian arum - Arum italicum (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images, Toxic)

Italian arum

Also known as: Large cuckoo pint

Native to the Mediterranean, the italian arum is cultivated as an ornamental plant and has been naturalized in a variety of places, including the Caucasus region, Argentina, and the United States. The berries and leaves are considered to be poisonous and should avoid ingesting.

Scientific classification

Species

Italian arum (Arum italicum)

Water plantains and allies

Instantly identify plants with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant ID, gaining quick insights on disease prevention, treatment, toxicity, care, uses, and symbolism, etc.

Download the App for Free

Toxic to Humans

Toxicity

Perennial, Annual

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Spring

Bloom Time

Summer, Fall

Harvest Time

30 cm to 46 cm

Plant Height

50 cm

Spread

Green, Variegated, White, Silver

Leaf Color

15 cm to 33 cm

Flower Size

Red, Orange

Fruit Color

White, Yellow, Green, Cream

Flower Color

Green, Red, Yellow, Orange

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring

Growth Season

Rapid

Growth Rate

Images of Italian arum

Distribution of Italian arum

Distribution Map

Italian arum is native to Europe, West Africa and several Asian countries, where it resides in calcium carbonate-rich, rocky soil. Italian arum was introduced to Argentina, New Zealand and several European countries

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

Discover plant distribution and habitat

Gain insights into where plants thrive and how they adapt, helping you identify, cultivate, and protect them with essential information on habitats, distribution maps, and climate trends.

Download the App for Free

Habitat

Stony ground near the sea, hedges and among old walls

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use

The italian arum is often found in woodland gardens, shaded border areas, and cottage gardens. It is prized because it is highly resistant to weather, disease, and pests. Gardeners enjoy its low maintenance. These tubers are best accompanied by plants such as the Amethyst Gem helleborus, wood forget-me-not, and White Triumphator tulip for color. However, Solomon's seal variegatum and Italian Arum Marmoratum also work alongside the italian arum.

Symbolism

Evil, vigilance, wrath

Interesting Facts

Italian arum blooms in spring. Its white flowers gradually become gorgeous red fruits. There are unique pale veins on its leaves. When the plantain lily withers, it will bloom in replace of it in early winter.

Name Story

Italian arum: If you observe its common name and its botanical name, you will realize that the common name is actually in latin but it is reversed in which the italian is actually derived from italicum.

Get quick plant knowledge with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant identification and learn about its name, symbolism, interesting facts, uses, and more.

Download the App for Free

Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Italian arum, including the following common varieties :

Italian arum 'Marmoratum'Italian arum 'Marmoratum'

Toxicity

Italian arum is highly toxic and can be fatal if ingested by dogs, cats, or humans. Contact causes skin irritation, while ingestion leads to severe swelling, difficulty breathing, and death. Symptoms include vomiting, drooling, and difficulty swallowing. Immediate veterinary care is crucial. Avoid planting italian arum where children or pets can access it due to its attractive appearance but toxic nature.

Identify toxic plants in your garden

Find out what’s toxic and what’s safe for humans and pets.

Download the App for Free

Quickly Identify Italian arum

Arrow-shaped, dark green leaves with silver-gray veining

Flowers with pale to dark yellow or dull brown spadix and white spathe with purplish edges

Distinctive orangish-red berry clusters measuring up to 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter

Leaves reaching up to 12 inches (30 cm) in length and 6-8 inches (15-20 cm) in width

Distinct odor resembling stale urine emitted by flowers

Identify plants with a snap

Instantly identify plants with AI: Snap a photo, and get accurate results within seconds.

Download the App for Free

Care Guide for Italian arum

Every week

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Italian arum thrives in moist, well-drained soil and partial shade, making it well-suited for Mediterranean woodlands. Drought-tolerant, it requires weekly watering and benefits from seasonal rains. As an herbaceous perennial, italian arum adapts its growth based on moisture availability during the growing season.

Fertilize: For optimal growth, italian arum requires balanced fertilizers with equal nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Apply one tablespoon per square foot monthly during summer, reducing in autumn. Always water after fertilizing to enhance absorption, and avoid over-fertilization to prevent damage.

Pruning: Italian arum features arrow-shaped leaves and pale green flowers, requiring minimal pruning. Early spring, before new growth, is ideal for removing dead or damaged parts. Clean tools are essential for preventing disease, promoting vigorous growth and maintaining ornamental value throughout the season.

Propagation: Italian arum propagates effectively in Spring via tuber division. This method requires patience, as new shoots may take weeks to emerge. For optimal tuber growth, use well-draining soil.

Repotting: Repot italian arum annually in spring for optimal root growth, using a pot slightly larger than the previous one. After repotting, keep the soil moist and provide indirect light to aid recovery. Consistent, gentle care is essential for this shade-loving plant.

Get tips and tricks for your plants.

Keep your plants happy and healthy with our guide to watering, lighting, feeding and more.

Download the App for Free