Cretan Arum

Arum creticum is a striking tuberous perennial native to Crete and Karpathos, which performs surprisingly well in the warmer parts of the UK. Unlike our native 'Lords and Ladies', this species is grown for its bright, showy spathes. In mid to late spring, it produces large, elegant, butter-yellow hooded spathes that are often fragrant, smelling of lemon. These encase a slender, darker yellow spadix. The foliage is arrowhead-shaped and a glossy deep green, appearing in late autumn or winter and staying through the flowering period before dying back in summer. It reaches about 30-50cm in height. To succeed in the UK, it needs a warm, sheltered, south-facing position and very well-drained soil, as it requires a dry summer dormancy to mimic its Mediterranean home. It is rated H4, so it is generally hardy in the south and west, but may need protection elsewhere. It is an excellent plant for a sunny rockery or the front of a well-drained border where its vivid yellow can be celebrated.

Sun: Full sun.

Soil: Very well-drained, neutral to alkaline soil.

Hardiness: H4 — down to −10°C.

Flowering: Apr, May.