Italian Lords and Ladies: A Unique Winter Interest Plant for Shade Gardens
If you’re looking for a plant that marches to the beat of its own drum, Italian lords and ladies (Arum italicum) might just capture your attention. This quirky perennial does everything backwards – it grows in winter, flowers in spring, and takes a summer vacation when most other plants are in full swing.
What Makes Italian Lords and Ladies Special?
Italian lords and ladies is a perennial forb that brings drama to shady spots with its distinctive arrow-shaped leaves marked by striking white veins. These glossy green leaves emerge in fall and provide gorgeous winter interest when most other plants have gone dormant. Come spring, the plant produces its most unusual feature – hooded flowers that look like they belong in a gothic novel, followed by clusters of bright orange-red berries in summer.
Where Does It Come From?
This Mediterranean native has made itself at home in several U.S. states, including California, Illinois, Missouri, North Carolina, Oregon, Virginia, and Washington. As a non-native species that reproduces on its own in the wild, it’s established naturalized populations across these regions.
Should You Plant Italian Lords and Ladies?
Italian lords and ladies can be an interesting addition to the right garden setting, but it’s worth considering both the pros and cons:
The Appeal
- Provides winter interest when most plants are dormant
- Thrives in challenging shade conditions
- Low maintenance once established
- Unique reverse growing cycle creates year-round garden interest
- Attractive foliage with distinctive white veining
Things to Consider
- As a non-native species, it doesn’t provide the same ecological benefits as native plants
- All parts of the plant are toxic if ingested
- Can spread and naturalize in suitable conditions
- Limited value for native pollinators and wildlife
Growing Italian Lords and Ladies Successfully
If you decide to grow Italian lords and ladies, here’s what you need to know:
Growing Conditions
- Light: Partial to full shade
- Soil: Moist but well-draining; tolerates various soil types
- Hardiness: USDA zones 6-10
- Water: Regular watering during active growth (fall through spring)
Planting and Care Tips
- Plant tubers in fall when they’re beginning their active growth cycle
- Space plants 12-18 inches apart
- Water regularly during fall, winter, and spring growing seasons
- Allow the soil to dry out during summer dormancy
- Remove spent flowers to prevent unwanted spreading if desired
- Mulch lightly to protect tubers in colder zones
Garden Design Ideas
Italian lords and ladies works well in:
- Shade gardens as winter groundcover
- Woodland settings beneath trees and shrubs
- Mediterranean-style landscapes
- Winter interest plantings
- Containers for seasonal displays
Native Alternatives to Consider
If you’re interested in supporting local ecosystems, consider these native alternatives that offer similar shade tolerance and interesting foliage:
- Wild ginger (Asarum canadense) for heart-shaped leaves
- Trilliums for woodland charm
- Native ferns for textural interest
- Coral bells (Heuchera species) for colorful winter foliage
The Bottom Line
Italian lords and ladies is an unusual plant that can add winter interest to shade gardens, but it’s important to weigh its ornamental value against its non-native status. If you choose to grow it, enjoy its unique reverse-season beauty while also considering native plants that can provide similar garden interest along with ecological benefits. Whatever you decide, remember that the best garden is one that reflects your personal style while being mindful of the local environment.
