Italian Arum

A stemless woodland species native to Europe. Italian Arum is a tuberous perennial grown for its spectacular foliage and bright red berries. When the rest of the garden goes to sleep in the fall, the glossy, arrow-shaped leaves appear and persist through winter, withering in mid-spring. Greenish ivory flowers resemble those of its relative, Jack-in-the-Pulpit, and appear in midsummer followed by stunning orange-red berries that may last on the plant until the foliage returns again in the fall. In some areas, plants can self-sow vigorously so choose a location where that won't be a concern. All parts are very poisonous and should not be planted near vegetables or where children play.