Plant during the recommended period shown in the variety’s specifications. If you cannot plant straight away, store them somewhere cool, dry and well ventilated.
Arum italicum
Italian lords-and-ladies
There’s something almost sculptural and definitely something artistic about the Arum italicum, sometimes called Italian arum or Italian lords-and-ladies. The textures and overall design of this plant and its unusual blooms make it a must for any gardener looking for something a little different. The leaves of the Arum italicum plant start the artistic feeling going. They can be shaped like spears or like arrows, but either way are patterned with lighter green or white veins. Atop the foliage, Arum italicum presents hooded white flowers which leave a collection of green berries clinging to the stem which age to a very bright orange-red. Don’t be tempted to eat Arum italicum's luscious-looking berries though, they could be harmful to your health.
With its sleek, arrow-shaped leaves and mesmerizing green and silver patterns, it's like Arum italicum snuck into a high-end fashion show. But watch out for its mischievous streak! Just when you think you've got it figured out, Arum italicum reveals its true intentions with a spike of orange berries that practically scream. Don't be fooled by its elegant appearance; this plant knows exactly how to play mind games. So if you're ready for a little mystery, mischief, and a whole lot of botanical drama, Arum italicum is the perfect accomplice for your garden heist!
Quantity
Plant profile
Plant calendar
Check whether your varieties prefer sun or shade, then choose a sheltered position in well-drained soil or a suitable pot or container.
Remove weeds and loosen compacted soil. Improve heavy ground with organic matter and horticultural grit. For containers, use peat-free multipurpose compost and ensure good drainage.
Plant at the depth recommended for each variety, as their requirements differ. Position shoots or pointed ends upwards. If the correct direction is unclear, plant them on their sides.
Follow the recommended spacing for each variety. Planting in clusters or informal drifts creates a natural display, but avoid placing them directly against one another.
Water after planting if the soil is dry. Keep containers lightly moist but never waterlogged. After flowering, allow foliage to yellow naturally before removing it.
- Botanical name
- Arum italicum
- Flower colour
- White flowers, orange berries
- Bulb size
- 10/12
- Established height
- 20-30cm
- Established spread
- 30-50cm
- Growing skill
- Easy to grow
- Habit
-
Upright
Clump-forming - Hardiness
- Fully hardy
- Leaf colour
- Green, variegated
- Mouse resistant
- Yes
- Plant spacing
- 25 bulbs per m2
- Pollinator friendly
- Yes
- Position
- Sheltered
- Rabbit resistant
- Yes
- Scented
- No
- Soil acidity
- Any
- Soil moisture
- Free draining
- Soil type
-
Loam
Sandy
Multipurpose compost - Suitable for
-
Ground cover
Woodland gardens
Low maintenance gardens - Sunlight
-
Partial shade
Full sun
Dappled shade
Full shade - Toxicity
-
Skin/eyes irritant
Toxic if eaten - Years to establish
- 1st year
Expert care from
choice to delivery
Our horticulturalists prepare every bulb and plant with the utmost care. From selection to packing, each one receives expert attention before beginning its journey to your garden.