Cuckoo pint (Arum maculatum)
Care, watering, light and tips for Cuckoo pint on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Araceae
- Difficulty: Moderate care
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Indirect light
- Temperature: 15–30 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Cuckoo pint
Arum maculatum, commonly known as Lords-and-Ladies or Cuckoo-Pint, is a perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the Araceae family, native to Europe and North Africa. It is characterized by its large, often spotted leaves and its unique inflorescence, a spadix surrounded by a greenish spathe that turns purple. It is ideal for woodland gardens or shady areas where its exotic appearance can be admired.
Native range
Europe, North Africa, and Western Asia
Care tips
It prefers partial to full shade and moist, well-drained soils rich in organic matter. Watering should be regular, keeping the substrate consistently moist but avoiding waterlogging, especially during its active growing period in spring. Avoid intense direct sunlight, as it can scorch its leaves; furthermore, be aware that all parts of the plant are toxic if ingested, so it's important to handle it with caution.
How to save a dying Cuckoo pint
- Warning signs
- Yellowing or wilting leaves, soft stems, rot at the base.
- First aid
- Remove affected leaves, check roots for rot, repot if needed.
- What kills it
- Overwatering and waterlogged soil, causing root rot.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if you act quickly to remove the cause and improve drainage.