Arisarum proboscideum (Mouse Plant)

Grown mainly for its curious flowers, Arisarum proboscideum (Mouse Plant) is a rhizomatous perennial forming attractive mats of arrow-shaped, glossy, green leaves up to 6 in. long (15cm). In spring, unusual purple-brown and white flowers appear on short stems, but they are usually hidden from view by the foliage. Minute flowers (spadix) are concealed in a hooded dark purplish brown spathe that is drawn out into a tail up to 6 in. long (15 cm), creating a mouse-like effect. The flowers are long-lasting in indoor arrangements. Native to shady woodlands in Spain and Italy, Mouse Plant will produce offsets freely and spread to form colonies over time. A terrific groundcover for shady areas, this woodland perennial goes dormant after flowering but makes a good companion plant for spring flowering bulbs.

• Grows up to 3-6 in. tall (7-15 cm) and 3-18 in. wide (7-45 cm).
• Performs best in part shade to full shade in consistently moist, humus-rich, well-drained soils. This plant performs poorly in heavy clay soils.
• Mouse Plant is a fine choice for beds and borders, underplanting shrubs, as an edging plant, or as a ground cover. Perfect for city gardens, cottage gardens, rock gardens, and woodland gardens.
• No serious pest or disease issues.
• Plant tubers 3-4 in. deep (7-10 cm).
• Propagate by seed sown in containers in a cold frame in spring, or by division in autumn or winter.
• Toxic by ingestion, sap may irritate skin and eyes. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling.
• Native to Italy, Spain.