Land Plants - invasive

Italian Arum (Arum italicum) on Feb 26, 2018

Submitter has sample

Description of specimen

I have one established patch that is spreading and one new patch that recently sprung up about 50 yards away.

Commentary

None

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.

Resources

Washington State Noxious Weed Board info on Italian Arum

Location

The species was found in my garden on Barbara Welch Rd and is quickly spreading around the yard.

Expert Reviewer

Mr. Mitch Bixby
City of Portland - Bureau of Environmental Services (BES)

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