Report #1567 - Report: Italian Arum (Arum italicum)

Italian Arum (Arum italicum) on Feb 10, 2015

Submitter has sample

Description of specimen

Relatively confined patch of Italian arum with plants on both sides of the Indian Creek Trail, apparently spread from a residential yard/garden above the trail. There were many plants but the patch probably wasn't more than 5 meters across.

Commentary

I can go back to photograph and quantify the size of the infestation (didn't have a camera with me at the time).

Reporter
Feb. 10, 2015, 5:23 a.m.

Thank you for this report. I have shared it with local groups that are maintaining this trail and will consult with the partners in the Columbia Gorge CWMA for treatment options. Italian arum is of high concern for us and we will be actively monitoring this site.

Jordan Kim
Feb. 10, 2015, 7:23 a.m.

Remedy

Italian arum can be difficult to eradicate once established. Make sure to wear gloves and long sleeves and pants when removing it, as its sap can cause skin irritation. Do not compost or put in your yard debris, as this can lead to spreading of tubers which can grow into new plants. Home control methods can include carefully digging out the tuber and any daughter tubers and disposing in the trash. Cutting and disposing of the berries in the trash can help prevent spreading to new sites. Herbicide trials are still inconclusive, please contact your local Soil and Water Conservation District if you are interested in chemical control.

Italian Arum (Arum italicum) on Feb 10, 2015

Description of specimen

Commentary

Remedy

Resources

Location

Expert Reviewer