Black Arum

Arum palaestinum makes a glamorous choice for the garden.

These striking flowers hail from the rugged reaches of the Middle East. The spathes have a soft, olive-green exterior, this calm colouring encases a dramatic interior. The inner spathe is a sensational velvet black.

Black Arum are surprisingly easy to flower. The blooms have a yeasty fragrance and are pollinated by insects. It is not strongly unpleasant like the Dranunculus, more like sweet compost, and after a couple of days it disappears. On average, the flowers last two weeks, depending on conditions. The foliage is mid green, shaped like an arrow or heart and measures 20-25cm in length and 10cm across. The stems have a decorative purple spotting.

As a desert tropical, Black Arum are tough. They like good drainage and are happy to wait out the dry summer months in dormancy. Black Arums take advantage of the winter and spring rains and come back to life. It will cope with dry, but be more vigorous when watered. Grow in a full sun to semis shade position.

We have heard and read many tales of people growing this plant through ignorance alone! Plant them in a position that takes advantage of morning sun.

Supplied as: Bulbs