‘Purple Spathe Arum’
Endemic to South Western Crete Arum purpureospathum has both a purple spathe and a purple spadix. It is the very deep purple to near black colour of the flower that makes this a standout plant in the garden.
Flowering in late mid to late winter this is a very easy plant to grow in a sunny position with a well drained soil.
The foliage emerges before the flowers and is best described as arrow like or lanceolate, a mid green and attractive in their own right.
The flowers will reach around 10 inches in height (25cm)
This is a stemless plant, the foliage and the flowers all emerge from the tuber below.
After flowering it will set seed. And after seed set the foliage dies back and the plant is ready for its summer dormancy.
This is a cold tolerant species.
How to grow Arum purpureospathum – Basic Care
This is a summer dormant plant, and summers in Crete are hot and dry…However it does grow in areas with some moisture over summer.
Once established this plant is regarded as drought tolerant and generally requiring little extra water if grown in the ground.
Soil
A humus rich free draining soil is best.
Position
Full sun in cooler climates to part shade in warmer zones, deep shade may inhibit flowering. In the natural environment they grow in part shade.
Watering
In ares with winter rainfall little to no extra watering will be required unless summers are very hot and the soil dries out. Try for a wet/dry cycle of watering during growth and just don’t let the soil desiccate over summer.
In containers watering is required to keep the soil moist. So watering 2 – 3 times a week may be needed.
Fertiliser
An application of a general purpose slow release organic fertiliser in late summer will be adequate.
In terms of climate USDA zones 8a to 10b, are a guide.