Arum

Aruminparis

Modell von Arum (Aronstab) -Brendel Nr. 202-

Kozlaci na Vidovoj gori (Croatia)

Arum is a genus of flowering plants in the family Araceae, comprising a variety of species known for their distinctive spadix and spathe flower structure. The genus is native to Europe, northern Africa, and western and central Asia, with a few species extending to the eastern Himalayas and southern India. Arum plants are notable for their unique pollination mechanism, which often involves the production of heat and sometimes foul odors to attract pollinators.

Description

Arum species are perennial herbs that grow from underground rhizomes. They are characterized by their inflorescence, which consists of a spadix surrounded by a spathe. The spadix is a spike on which the actual flowers are borne, and the spathe is a large bract that can be vividly colored or patterned, acting as a visual attractant to pollinators. The flowers are typically unisexual, with male and female flowers located on the same spadix, but separated into different zones. The fruit of Arum plants is a cluster of berries, which can be brightly colored, adding an ornamental value to the plants.

Ecology and Pollination

Arum species have developed a fascinating pollination strategy that involves the production of heat and, in some cases, odors that mimic rotting flesh. This strategy attracts certain types of insects, such as flies, which are tricked into visiting the flower for breeding or feeding purposes. Once inside the spathe, the insects are temporarily trapped, ensuring pollination. The heat produced by the plant helps to volatilize the odor and can also aid in the insects' activity within the flower.

Cultivation and Uses

Some Arum species are cultivated as ornamental plants for their striking spathe and spadix, as well as their foliage, which can be lush and attractively patterned. Arum italicum and Arum maculatum are among the species commonly grown in gardens. However, care must be taken as all parts of Arum plants contain calcium oxalate crystals, making them toxic if ingested. In some regions, the rhizomes of certain species are processed and used as starch, but this requires careful preparation to remove toxic substances.

Species

The genus Arum includes several species, such as:

• Arum italicum – Italian Arum
• Arum maculatum – Lords-and-Ladies or Cuckoo Pint
• Arum palaestinum
• Arum dioscoridis

Conservation

While many Arum species are common and not considered at risk, habitat destruction and over-collection have led to declines in some areas. Conservation efforts are important to ensure the survival of rarer species and the biodiversity of the ecosystems in which they live.

Gallery

Note: As per the instructions, no placeholder images are included.

See Also

• Pollination
• Rhizome
• Araceae
• Ornamental plant