Arum maculatum

Scientific description

Taxon: Arum italicum
Class: Magnoliopsida (Dicotyledons)
Subclass: Liliidae (sometimes classified as Monocotyledons depending on the system)
Order: Alismatales
Family: Araceae
Common name: Italian arum

Origin:
Southern and Western Europe, Mediterranean basin.

Description:
Arum italicum is a perennial tuberous plant growing between 20 and 80 cm tall. Its triangular, long-petioled, often wavy leaves appear before winter and have white or yellowish veins. Flowering occurs in April and May, with an inflorescence surrounded by a white spathe. Male and female flowers are separated on the stem, with female flowers located at the bottom. The inflorescence emits a smell resembling decaying matter. The plant is toxic and irritating to the skin.

Propagation:
Reproduces mainly by dividing tubers in spring or autumn. Seed propagation is possible but slower.

Ecology:
Grows in shaded or semi-shaded habitats, often in woodlands or forest edges, on rich, moist, well-drained soils. Adapted to temperate Mediterranean climates.

Use:
• Primarily ornamental
• Occasionally traditional medicine (with caution due to toxicity)
• Not edible

Creative writing inspired by Arum maculatum

The story of Arum

In a deep valley, hidden in the heart of the forest, lived a mysterious plant called the arum. Its large, heart-shaped leaves seemed to protect an ancient secret, and its flower, a white spathe wrapped around a golden spadix, shone in the moonlight like a lighthouse. Those who knew the place said it held the key to an ancient power, hidden for centuries.

One day, a young botanist named Julien heard about this legendary flower. Curious and determined, he set out to find it. He had been told that the arum only revealed itself to those who deserved to understand its wisdom, and that its beauty hid a fragile and delicate power.

Crossing the forest, Julien observed the arum in its natural habitat, a mysterious shadow among the dense foliage. The plant, though beautiful, was also dangerous. Its roots could be poisonous if one was not careful.

He returned every day and came across a young botanist, Jeanne, who was also intrigued by this mysterious flower. Julien and Jeanne arranged to meet to talk about the arum and share their passion.

As the days passed, their bond grew stronger, and the two fell in love, deciding to visit the plant regularly, which had become the symbol of their love.

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Authentic Specimen