Arum

About

Arum italicum produces light green spathes followed by orange berry spears in late summer. Dark green foliage with unique white veining appears in fall and dies back when blooms appear. Arum italicum is native to Europe.

Highlights

• Exotic blooms and foliage
• Perfect for woodland beds and borders
• Naturalizes well
• Deer & critter resistant
• Native to Europe

Planting Care & Instructions

Plant Arum in the spring after all danger of frost has passed. Arum prefers full sun to partially shaded locations - full sun for cooler areas. The ideal soil is rich and porous and drains well, yet still holds enough water for the roots. If your soil is heavy clay and drains slowly, or very sandy and does not hold water, add organic soil amendments like peat moss or ground bark. Spread a 3-4 inch layer of soil amendment if needed and incorporate into the soil to a depth of 10 inches. Plant rhizomes 3-5" deep and 4-6" apart. Cover with soil. When planting a large number of Arum in one bed, excavate the entire area to the recommended depth, work fertilizer into the bottom of the trench, set out rhizomes and then cover all at once. Water thoroughly at planting. While actively growing, water frequently and thoroughly so that water will reach roots. Mulch to keep the soil cool and to prevent the soil from drying out. Apply fertilizer during growing season until foliage starts to turn yellow. After frost has damaged the foliage, dig up rhizomes, dry for a few days, trim off foliage and store in barely damp peat moss at 50-60ºF during the winter. Be sure to check on them a few times to make sure they are not too moist or too dry. Replant in spring after all danger of frost has passed.

Growing Tips

Arum italicum is very poisonous and should not be planted near vegetables or where children play.