Chapters

Growing Guide
Further Reading
Plants

Arisarum - The Mouse Plant - Growing Guide

Growing Guide

This is a plant from Italy and Spain which grows in small spreading rhizomatous clumps that produce hooded dark brown-purple spathes or spoon-like flowers in spring. These are around 2’’ long with a thin curled tip of up to 6’’ long which looks like a mouse’s tail.

A source of amusement and entertainment for children and those who enjoy peculiar and unusual plant forms. A miniature Arum italicum?

Arisarum prodoscideum

It prefers damp conditions and shade. Its glossy arrow shaped dark green leaves are easily scorched in full sun causing the plant to flop and die down prematurely.

A fertile soil with plenty of added mulch or compost is ideal although the plant has survived proper frosts in the garden here. In the greenhouse they make pleasant spring pot plants but prefer a mixture of sand and peat rather than being grown in soil. Shading is necessary for best results.

Clumps of Arisarum proboscideum can readily be lifted and divided when dormant in autumn. They can also be grown from seed sown in spring in containers or a cold frame.