The arum flower is striking in its uniqueness. The male and the female flowers are clustered in a complex spiral on a column in the centre called the spadix. The uppermost 7 cm comprises the male flowers and the remaining 1.8 cm is where the female flowers sprout. It’s petal like spathe is actually a modified leaf which can either be white or coloured. The flowers emit a mild fragrance which helps attract insects that help to pollinate the flowers.

This perennial herb has 25 different species, bears dark green leaves, the heads of which are shaped like spears. The fruit of arum is called berry which turns yellow when ripe. Arum is well distributed in places of Europe, Northern Africa and western Asia. It prefers rich and well drained soils and thrives best in the shade.

Arum stands for purity and is, therefore, widely used in bridal bouquets. As it lasts longer when kept in water it is popularly used as a cut flower. The leaves of arum when applied as poultice give relief to headache.

The Latin name of arum is ‘Zantedeschia aethiopica (L.) Spreng’. It belongs to the family of araceae and it blossoms from August to January.