Arum italicum - Italian arum

Italian arum (Arum italicum) is a persistent, herbaceous plant from the family of the Aron stable plants (Araceae). This species is known for its decorative leaves, its unusual flower structure and its bright red fruit stands. Arum italicum is native to Europe and in the Mediterranean and is increasingly being valued as an ornamental plant.

Morphology

Arum italicum reaches a growth of 30 to 60 cm. The plant forms an underground rhizome that serves as a memory organ and produces new leaves and inflorescences every year. The leaves appear in autumn or early winter and remain green until spring. They are arrow -shaped to heart -shaped, mostly glossy and often crossed with lighter, marbled veins that form a striking pattern.

The flowering period extends from April to June. The inflorescence consists of a piston (Spadix), which is covered by a striking, yellowish-green to cream-colored high leaf (Spatha). The actual flowers are small and inconspicuous and are located on the lower part of the piston. They are divided into female, male and sterile flowers. The upper part of the piston is often a club -shaped and creates warmth and smell to attract insects for pollination.

After flowering, the plant forms fruit stands with bright red berries that are poisonous. The fruit stands often remain until autumn and are a striking feature of this kind.

Distribution and habitat

Arum italicum is widespread in the Mediterranean, in western and southern Europe and in North Africa. His natural habitat includes light forests, bushes, river banks and shady rock areas. The plant prefers nutrient -rich, humose soils with good water supply and thrives in partially shaded to shady locations.

Outside of their natural distribution area, Arum italicum often cultivated as a garden plant and can overgrow in some regions.

Ecological meaning

The plant plays a role in the ecosystem as a source of food for insects. The flower piston attracts flies and beetles with heat and fragrance that contribute to pollination. The berries are eaten by birds that spread the seeds.

Toxicity and use

All parts of Arum italicum are poisonous and contain oxalates as well as other toxic compounds that can cause mucosal irritation and other symptoms of poisoning when eating. The bright red berries are particularly dangerous for children and pets.

Despite its toxicity, the plant is estimated as an ornamental plant, especially because of its evergreen leaves and decorative fruit stands. In shady garden areas, it serves as a structure plant and ground cover.