This beautiful lily is a vigorous weed found in many parts of the North Island, and is part of the Araceae family. It grows from tubers in the ground and has evergreen, dark green, arrow shaped large leaves. Easily identified by the large white flowers with a golden spike. The arum lily also produces green berries which turn yellow as they mature.

All parts of the plant are poisonous. This plant spreads by seed drops, or seeds dispersed by birds, and by soil movement with tuber or roots parts. Plants form large clumps as they mature.

Physical Control

Mowing does not control the Arum lily. Instead, cut down leaves before digging out all parts of the roots/tubers. Dry these out or bury deeply.

These can be rotted down in a covered barrel of water, alternatively dispose of them in green waste or landfill. Don’t add to your compost as this will spread the problem around.

Other Treatment

Cut back and apply Cut ‘N ‘Paste Metgel to the freshly cut stems. Leave them to rot back on site. Repeated application may be required.

Not suitable for use in the vegetable garden or near any food or animal crops.

When using sprays and chemicals always read the label and follow instructions carefully. Spray in the evening to avoid harming beneficial insects.