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Arisarum 

Arisarum are an easily grown genus, with only three species A. proboscideum, A. simorrhinum and A. vulgare. The latter two species have formed a number of hybrid swarms over generations. 

A. proboscideum is a hardy woodland species requiring shady conditions, the other two species are typical Mediterranean aroids from rocky red soils. Although none of the clones of A. simorrhinum in cultivation seem to be frost-resistant, there are several forms of the widespread A. vulgare that appear to be reasonably hardy.

Species list

  • Arisarum proboscideum (L.) Savi. Spain & Italy.
  • Arisarum simorrhinum Durieu. Western central Meditteranean.
  • Arisarum vulgare O.Targ.Tozz. Around the Meditteranean sea. Morocco to Turkey, France to Lybia.
Arisarum proboscideum inflorescences mousetail plant
The brown hooded spathe of Arisarum proboscideum (L.) Savi resembles a mouse's tail, hence the common name mousetail plant. Photo by David Scherberich.
Cross section of the inflorescence of Arisarum proboscideum (L.) Savi. Photo by David Scherberich.
Cross section of the inflorescence of Arisarum simorrhinum Durieu. Photo by David Scherberich.