Arum creticum

Arum creticum, the Cretan arum, is a species in the flowering plant family Araceae, native to the Greek island of Crete (Kriti), the Eastern Aegean Islands, and southwestern Turkey. This semi-evergreen clump-forming tuberous perennial has large arrow-shaped leaves. Erect folded-back spathes of fragrant yellow or cream appear in spring, with longer narrow spadices of a darker yellow. The flowers are followed in autumn by clusters of red or orange fruit. The plant reaches 50 cm tall and broad.

Arum creticum is cultivated as an ornamental plant in temperate gardens. It is hardy but requires a sheltered position in sun or partial shade, with moist soil.

Caution should be exercised when handling it, as it is an irritant and toxic if ingested.