Arum Maculatum (Noun)
Meaning
Common European arum with lanceolate spathe and short purple spadix; emerges in early spring; source of a starch called arum.
Classification
Nouns denoting plants.
Examples
- Arum maculatum is commonly known as Lord-and-Ladies or Cuckoo Pint due to its unique flower structure.
- Arum maculatum grows in woodlands, hedgerows, and damp shady places, and can form large clumps.
- The leaves of Arum maculatum typically emerge in early spring, followed by the spathe and spadix.
- Arum maculatum contains a toxic compound called calcium oxalate, which can cause irritation and allergic reactions in some people.
- In ancient Greece and Rome, the tubers of Arum maculatum were dried and used as a starchy food, called "Arum starch"