Also known as lords and ladies, or cuckoo pint, arum is a genus of spring-flowering tuberous perennial found growing in partially shaded spots throughout many parts of the world. It is recognisable for its distinctive and often attractively marked spear, arrow, or heart-shaped leaves, along with unusual flowers which consist of a spadix (spike of tiny flowers) enclosed by a spathe (hood). Once ripe, the spadix heats up and emits a strong, often unpleasant smell to attract insects. Downward facing hairs then trap these at the base of the hooded chamber until the flowers inside have been pollinated.

The leaves are usually produced in autumn or winter, peak during early spring, then wither, along with the spathe, in midsummer. The spadix persists, growing taller and becoming encrusted in red or orange autumn berries. These make an attractive feature in their own right and may last through until the following spring, unless there are hungry blackbirds, thrushes, or pheasants in the vicinity.

The arum species most UK gardeners will be familiar with is Arum maculatum, the native plant seen throughout the countryside in woodland, hedgerows, and ditches. This spreads easily and is likely to become a nuisance if it becomes established in a well-tended garden. That said, it is not without merit – it has great wildlife value and a highly adaptable nature, meaning it can be a good plant to encourage in more inhospitable places (e.g., dry shade) where less vigorous and robust plants may struggle.

Another key species is A. italicum and its cultivars. These are often grown for ornamental value – their leaves being attractively marbled with pale veining. The dramatically marked A. italicum ‘Marmoratum’ is a favourite amongst flower arrangers.

Arum is not to be confused with zantedeschia – a larger and more tender African genus within the same family (araceae), commonly referred to as arum lily.