The correct spelling of the scientific name for the wild arum plant is "Arisarum vulgare". The first part of the word, "Arisarum", is pronounced /əˈrɪsərəm/. The second part, "vulgare", is pronounced /ˈvʌlɡeər/. The word "Arisarum" comes from the Greek word "aris", which means "sluggish". This is because the plant's flowers release a strong odor that can attract flies and other insects. "Vulgare" means "common" in Latin, referring to the plant's widespread distribution across Europe and the Mediterranean.
Arisarum Vulgare, commonly known as "Lords-and-Ladies" or "Cuckoo-pint," is a perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the Araceae family. It is native to Europe, North Africa, and Western Asia and is widely distributed in temperate regions around the world.
The plant has broad, heart-shaped leaves with prominent veins that emerge directly from an underground tuber. The dark green foliage can grow up to 25 centimeters in height. The beautiful leaves are often marbled with light green or silver-gray patterns, adding to its ornamental value.
Arisarum Vulgare produces a unique and distinctive inflorescence called a spadix, which is enclosed by a purple or greenish bract called a spathe. The inconspicuous flowers are nestled at the base of the spadix, surrounded by sterile appendages. The bloom period occurs from late winter to early spring, attracting pollinators like flies with its putrid smell.
This plant prefers shaded areas with moist, well-draining soil and can be found in woodlands, hedgerows, and damp meadows. It often spreads through underground tubers or by seed dispersal.
In some regions, Arisarum Vulgare is cultivated as an ornamental plant due to its unique foliage and interesting inflorescence. However, it should be noted that this species contains calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause skin irritation or discomfort if ingested, so handling with care is recommended.
The word Arisarum comes from the Greek word arisein, meaning to lift up. This is derived from the belief that the plant lifts up its inflorescence. Vulgare is a Latin word meaning common. So, Arisarum Vulgare can be translated as the common arisarum or the widespread arisarum.