Black calla lily, Spotted arum
Arum palaestinum
Family: Araceae
What it is like
A plant that keeps growing from year to year. It grows 1 m high and spreads 1 m wide. The stem is erect and flowering. The leaves have 3 lobes. They are green and arrow shaped. They have long leaf stalks. These are 15-50 cm long. The spathes are large and purplish black and velvety.
It is also used in medicine. It has anticancer properties.
Where it is found
It is a Mediterranean climate plant. In Lebanon it grows in forest communities. It needs light shade. It is best in well composted, well-drained moist soils. It is damaged by drought and frost.
Countries/locations it is found in
Australia, Israel, Jordan, Lebanon, Mediterranean (country/location of origin), Middle East, Palestine, Syria
How it is used for food
The leaves are eaten cooked after being soaked in salty water or after drying. They are also used for herbal teas.
Edible parts
Leaves
How it is grown
It is grown by division.
Its other names
Local names
Luf, 'udn ilfil