Arum lily

Arum italicum, commonly known as Italian arum or arum lily, is a striking tuberous perennial grown primarily for its handsome foliage and architectural seed heads. The glossy, arrow-shaped, deep green leaves, often beautifully veined with creamy white, emerge in autumn and persist through winter, providing welcome interest. In spring, subtle, pale green spathes (hood-like bracts) surround a yellow spadix, followed by dramatic spikes of bright orange-red berries in late summer and autumn that remain attractive into winter. It typically reaches a height of 20-40cm and spreads slowly to form clumps. Arum italicum thrives in partial to full shade and prefers moist, well-drained soil. It is perfect for woodland gardens, shady borders, and naturalising under deciduous trees, where its foliage can truly shine. All parts of the plant are poisonous if ingested. It provides excellent winter ground cover and architectural form, a classic choice for shady spots.

Sun: Partial shade.

Soil: Moist, well-drained.

Hardiness: H7 — below −20°C.

Flowering: Apr, May.