Zantedeschia aethiopica - Arum-lily

Perennial tuberous plant from wet areas, this white arum, also known as Zantedeschia aethiopica, forms clumps of large, shiny dark green leaves from which sumptuous, fragrant white cones emerge in summer. Semi-hardy, this highly ornamental plant will survive not too harsh winters if its stump is well protected with a thick mulch. Timeless, sculptural, and prolific, it embodies opulence and thrives where it pleases. Essential at the edge of water points or in wet beds, its flowers are very beautiful and long-lasting in bouquets.

Originally from South Africa, the Ethiopian arum is a rhizomatous herbaceous perennial plant from the arum family. From spring, numerous long-petiolled leaves with very large, sagittate, shiny, dark green lamina emerge from its stump. The plant rapidly forms imposing clumps of 90 cm (35in) in all directions. Flowering takes place from May to July and can easily be advanced by forcing in a greenhouse. The magnificent inflorescences are composed of a yellow spadix surrounded by an evasive, white spathe, whose velvety texture blends with the rough touch of parchment. The scent, quite discreet, is noticeable when one plunges their nose into the heart of the flowers. It evokes the scent of anise and rice powder.

Long considered cold and static flowers, used to adorn solemn bouquets or laden with religious connotations, arums are making a comeback. Their generous clumps enhance the edges of well-designed ponds, the back of beds in damp soil, and allow for beautiful potted arrangements. Zantedeschia aethiopica can even be cultivated under 20 to 30 cm (8 to 12in) of water during the growing season. It pairs well with Solomon's seals, royal lilies, periwinkles, and ceraistes.