Arum Compressum G.Don
Arum Compressum G.Don is a plant species that belongs to the Araceae family. It is also known by different common names in different regions, including Orange Arum, Orange Lily, and Welsh Onion.
Origin
Arum Compressum G.Don is native to Western Europe, stretching from Portugal to Belgium and parts of the United Kingdom, mostly in Wales. It is also found in some parts of North Africa, specifically in Morocco and Algeria.
Appearance
The Arum Compressum G.Don plant has a unique appearance. It has a short stem with clustered leaves that are roughly arrow-shaped. Its flowers appear between May and June and have a bright orange hue, making it a lovely sight against the green foliage. The plant can grow up to 30cm high and can spread up to 15cm.
Uses
Although the plant has limited practical uses, it is often cultivated as a garden plant for its striking flowers. It is also used in some traditional medicines and has been used as a diuretic in some cultures. The plant is also used in some culinary dishes, mainly in parts of North Africa, where it is known as "aroum".
Light Conditions
Arum compressum G.Don thrives in partial shade or dappled sunlight. Excessive sunlight exposure can lead to scorching of the leaves and stunted growth. It is best to grow these plants under the canopy of other taller trees or in partially shaded areas.
Temperature Requirements
These plants grow best in warm to hot temperatures and are not cold hardy. They can tolerate temperatures up to 35°C during the day and 15-20°C at night. The minimum temperature required for the growth of these plants is around 12°C. Frost and cold temperatures can cause severe damage to the plant.
Soil Requirements
Arum compressum G.Don requires well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be slightly acidic with a pH range of 5.6-6.5. These plants can tolerate dry soil conditions but not waterlogged soil. It is best to plant them in raised beds or containers with a mixture of loam, sand, and peat moss.
Cultivation Methods
The Arum compressum G.Don, also known as the Mediterranean Arum, is a small perennial plant that requires well-draining and fertile soil with a pH range of 6-7.5. It prefers full sun exposure or partial shade and can be propagated through seeds or rhizome division. The best time to plant the Arum compressum is in the fall or early spring, as it gives ample time for the plant to establish before the hot summer months.
Watering Needs
Watering the Arum compressum G.Don is important during the growing season, especially when the top inch of soil becomes dry to the touch. It is best to water the plant deeply, allowing the water to soak the soil, but avoid over-watering as it can lead to root rot. During the winter months, reduce watering and allow the soil to dry out slightly before watering again.
Fertilization
Arum compressum G.Don requires periodic fertilization, especially in the early growing stages. It is best to apply balanced liquid fertilizer every 2-3 weeks, following the recommended dosage written on the package. Avoid fertilizing during the winter months, as the plant goes dormant and does not require additional nutrients.
Pruning
Pruning the Arum compressum G.Don is not necessary since it is a low-maintenance plant that does well on its own. However, if the plant becomes too leggy or overgrown, it can be pruned by trimming the outer leaves, being careful not to damage the central leaves. Dead or yellowing leaves can also be removed as needed to maintain the plant's appearance and health.
Propagation of Arum compressum G.Don
Propagation of Arum compressum G.Don can be done through both vegetative and sexual methods. The vegetative propagation is the most common way to propagate the plant as the seeds can be difficult to germinate.
Vegetative Propagation
Arum compressum G.Don can be propagated vegetatively by dividing rhizomes. The best time to do this is in the springtime when the plant is emerging from dormancy. Care should be taken while dividing rhizomes to make sure each division has roots and a healthy shoot.
Once the division is made, it should be planted in a container with well-draining soil. Water the plant and place it in a warm, shaded location with high humidity. Keep the soil moist, but not too wet. In a few weeks, the division should root and begin to grow.
Sexual Propagation
The sexual propagation of Arum compressum G.Don is done through seeds. The seeds produced by the plant are fleshy and bright red. Collect the seeds as soon as they are ripe and sow them in fertile, well-draining soil. Cover the soil with a thin layer of sand to help keep the moisture in.
The best time to sow the seeds is in the fall, and they should be planted about 1 cm deep. Cover the pot with plastic wrap to maintain humidity and place it in a warm location. Germination can take up to six months, but sometimes happens more quickly.
Once the seedlings are large enough to handle, separate them into individual pots. Keep them in a warm, shaded location with high humidity. Arum compressum G.Don requires a lot of water, and the soil should never be allowed to dry out completely.
Disease Management for Arum compressum G.Don
Arum compressum G.Don is a hardy plant species, but it is still vulnerable to various diseases. Rot, rust, and mildew are three of the most common diseases that can afflict it.
Rot usually occurs when the plant is left in water-logged soil for an extended period. Ensure good drainage and minimize watering if you notice signs of rot.
Rust disease is characterized by reddish-brown spots or pustules on the plant leaves and stems. To control rust, remove and dispose of all infected parts and avoid overcrowding the plants.
Mildew is a white powdery substance that appears on the leaves of the plant. To prevent mildew, control humidity levels in the growing area and avoid watering the plant in the evening.
Pest Management for Arum compressum G.Don
Arum compressum G.Don is also susceptible to pest infestations. Some of the pests that commonly affect the plant include spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs.
Spider mites are tiny pests that feed on the plant, causing yellowing and wilting. To control spider mites, ensure the plant is well-watered and regularly misted.
Aphids feed on the sap of the plant, causing wilting and yellowing. Use insecticidal soap to control aphids or wash the plant with a high-pressure water spray.
Mealybugs are white insects that have a waxy, cotton-like appearance. To control mealybugs, remove and destroy infected plant parts and use insecticidal soap to control infestations.
