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Description
Arum Italicum Subsp. Italicum Marmoratum, also known as Italian Lords and Ladies, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the family Araceae. It is native to Europe and can grow up to 30-40cm in height. The plant has a tuberous rhizome which bears large, arrow-shaped leaves and a spadix which is surrounded by a white, hood-shaped spathe. The plant produces small, bright red berries which are toxic if ingested.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Monocotyledons |
| Order | Alismatales |
| Family | Araceae |
| Genus | Arum |
Appearance
The Arum Italicum Subsp. Italicum Marmoratum has large, arrow-shaped leaves which are dark green in color with white veins. The leaves grow up to 20-30cm long and 15-20cm wide. The plant produces a spadix which is surrounded by a white, hood-shaped spathe which can grow up to 15cm long. The spathe has beautiful green markings that resemble marbling, giving the plant its common name. The plant produces small, bright red berries which are toxic if ingested.
Care Guide
The Arum Italicum Subsp. Italicum Marmoratum prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It requires moderate watering, and the soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. The plant prefers partial shade to full shade and can tolerate temperatures as low as -15°C. It is hardy in USDA zones 6-9. The plant can be fertilized with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Arum Italicum Subsp. Italicum Marmoratum is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to fungal diseases if grown in poorly drained soil or if overwatered. The plant can also be affected by snails and slugs, which can damage the leaves.
Habitat
The Arum Italicum Subsp. Italicum Marmoratum is native to Europe and can be found growing in woodland areas, hedgerows, and near streams. It is a popular ornamental plant and is grown in gardens as a groundcover or as a decorative feature in shady areas.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Arum Italicum Subsp. Italicum Marmoratum a poisonous plant?
A: Yes, the plant produces toxic red berries which are harmful if ingested.
Q: Can the Arum Italicum Subsp. Italicum Marmoratum grow in full sun?
A: The plant prefers partial to full shade but can tolerate some sunlight.
Q: How often should I water the Arum Italicum Subsp. Italicum Marmoratum?
A: The plant requires moderate watering, and the soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged.
Q: What is the hardiness zone of the Arum Italicum Subsp. Italicum Marmoratum?
A: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 6-9.
Related Plants
- Arum maculatum
- Arum dioscoridis
- Arum palaestinum
- Arum concinnatum
References
- https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/1393/Arum-italicum-Subsp-italicum-Marmoratum/Details
- https://www.gardenia.net/plant/arum-italicum-subsp-italicum-marmoratum-italian-lords-and-ladies
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/bulbs/arum-lily/growing-arum-lilies.htm
