Invasive Italian arum
Italian arum (Arum italicum) is also known as Orange Candleflower, Cuckoo’s Pint and Italian Lords-and-Ladies is a problem invasive species in warmer climates, but has shown up in Oregon. This European perennial was introduced as an ornamental plant and is primarily spread by birds and animals who eat them. They have hardy underground tubers and can also be spread from dumped yard debris or compost. You’ll find arum in moist, well-shaded woodland areas.
This species is toxic to animals and humans.
It’s distinctive white-veined leaves are present in the fall and sometimes through the winter. The plant produces flowers with a pale hood-like leaf (known as a spathe) circling a white-yellow nodule (called a spadix) in late April to June and give off a displeasing odor. After the flower dies back, you’ll see the green (turning to bright orange-red) berries in tight, oblong clusters.
Some native plant alternatives are:
- Stream violet
- Beach strawberry
- Wood strawberry
- Wild bleeding heart