Lords and Ladies

By the beginning of March, the unmistakable foliage of Arum maculatum is lush and vigorous. Its tightly furled leaves are among the first to appear from the woodland floor, usually when there are few other signs of life. As early as January, the dark green foliage can be spotted emerging from beneath hedges and trees. At a time when most other herbaceous, woodland plants remain dormant, Arum bursts into life. By February, fully formed leaves are large, glossy and vigorous, and easily recognisable by their attractive, arrowhead shape. This native plant is also known as Lords and Ladies, a name derived from the unusual construction of its flowers sometimes referred to as spathes.

ARCADIAN ARCHIVES
Lords and Ladies
By the beginning of March, the unmistakable foliage of Arum maculatum is lush and vigorous. Its tightly furled leaves are among the first to appear from the woodland floor, usually when there are few other signs of life. As early as January, the dark green foliage can be spotted emerging from beneath hedges and trees. At a time when most other herbaceous, woodland plants remain dormant, Arum bursts into life. By February, fully formed leaves are large, glossy and vigorous, and easily recognisable by their attractive, arrowhead shape. This native plant is also known as Lords and Ladies, a name derived from the unusual construction of its flowers sometimes referred to as spathes.
Lords and Ladies is often seen in deciduous woodlands where its tuberous roots thrive in soil that remains moist all year round. In the garden, it can be encouraged to grow along the base of a shaded, north-facing wall where it will blend comfortably with ferns and ivy. Once established, it requires little encouragement; a few plants soon spread to form a large colony. Its luxurious foliage looks wonderful in early spring, spreading out over grass that is only just beginning a new season’s growth. By the end of May, cylindrical, brown, flower stems will be displayed, each one appearing to be carefully wrapped in a pale green leaf. Imagine a single flower bought from the florist’s shop and wrapped in paper. After the flowers are pollinated by flies and other insects, green berries begin to form around the flower stem. In late summer and early autumn, they turn bright orange in colour. Because birds find the berries very attractive, the stems are soon broken and dishevelled but, for a short time, these berries are particularly striking, providing a vivid display in the shaded areas naturally inhabited by this plant. It should be noted that they are also extremely poisonous, especially if eaten by children. Although not native to Great Britain, one of the most popular garden varieties of this group of plants is Arum italicum 'Marmoratum'. If you know and like Lords and Ladies, then this variety should appeal even more. Newly emerged, glossy foliage is distinctly marked with silver marbling that slowly turns to shades of pale green and cream as the leaves mature. Foliage begins to emerge in winter, usually earlier than that of the native species, but it is still perfectly hardy and can withstand most of winter’s harsh conditions. Planted in the shade of trees and shrubs, it has enough winter protection from strong or cold winds. Like Arum maculatum, it also produces stems of orange berries in autumn, but is best known for its early spring foliage. Although it looks splendid growing on its own in a large clump, 'Marmoratum' is an ideal spring companion for snowdrops and hellebores. Flower arrangers are also extremely fond of this plant; heart-shaped foliage lasts for a long time in water after cutting.

ARCADIAN ARCHIVES

Lords and Ladies