Arum Maculatum May 2026

: Thrives in moist, fertile soils, typically in deciduous woodlands, hedgerows, and shady garden corners.

: The plant is "thermogenic," meaning it generates heat and emits a foul, dung-like odor to attract flies (specifically Psychoda phalaenoides ) for pollination. arum maculatum

Arum maculatum , commonly known as or Cuckoo Pint , is a woodland-dwelling perennial plant native to much of Europe, including the UK. It is widely recognized for its unique flowering structure and its extreme toxicity, containing needle-sharp calcium oxalate crystals that cause immediate pain and swelling if ingested. Key Identification Features : Thrives in moist, fertile soils, typically in

: While poisonous to humans and livestock, birds like blackbirds and thrushes readily eat the berries to disperse seeds. Safety and Toxicity It is widely recognized for its unique flowering

: Following the flower, the plant produces a spike of berries that transition from green to a striking bright orange-red by late summer.