Arum italicum is an unusual plant, and the thing I really like about
it, is that it has something different for each season! It's large arrow
shaped leaves are ornamental and appear in the fall. They remain on
the plant during the winter, even when covered with snow. In the
spring the plant produces flowers, similar to jack-in-the-pulpit,with
it's odd hooded blooms. In the summer it dies down until it surprises
us with interesting spikes of red/orange berries. Some varieties have
purple berries! As you can see, it's a very interesting plant. In some
countries it's popular name is "lords and ladies".
Arum italicum is hardy in some areas of Zone 5 through Zone 10. It
can grow in full shade, semi-shade or no sun, as long as it's given
sufficient moisture during the growing season. The soil should be
fairly fertile, and not too dry. The tubers are long and should be
planted in the fall. Evergreen boughs make a good cover when it
starts to really get cold. It does take a couple of seasons for the
plant to become fully established, but is worth it, so be patient.
You can combine arum italicum with white varieties of daffodils
and tulips, along with hostas for a striking display.
A couple of interesting notes-- wear gloves when handling the
tubers, seeds or any part of the plant, which contain calcium
oxylate crystals. It could cause a rash, and if chewed it produces
a nasty numbing reaction. Keep this one away from the kids and
teach them to leave it alone. Also, it's pollinated by house flies.
At this point, you are no doubt thinking that I am trying to talk
you OUT of growing this unique plant! No, on the contrary, it's
fascinating! However, Arum italicum not a plant to plant right
outside the back door. Some plants are best mixed in the flower
beds to add character and interest!
About the author:
Brenda Hyde is an avid herb gardener,
wife and mom to three living in the midwest United States. She's also editor and
owner of Old Fashioned Living.
BULB & PERENNIAL RESOURCES:
Spring Hill Nursery
Gurney's Nursery
Nature Hills Nursery
Pacific Callas
Bloomingbulb
National Gardening Association
DirectGardening.com 
Jackson & Perkins
White Flower Farm
Dutch Gardens
