Mystery Plants Still Growing and Spreading

2006.11.18

What an odd plant.  The caladiums died out during the hot summer, disappearing completely.  But in the fall, when other plants were starting to slow down or die back, up they sprouted again.

2007.02.25

Every fall and winter, the caladiums come up again and get bigger.  I’m careful not to remind them that they’re supposed to be a tropical houseplant, as they seem blissfully unaware that 20-degree winter nights should be wiping them out.

Not only are they getting bigger, but they also spread further each year.  Past the window well…

… along the foundation wall… and into the lawn!

2016.08.07

After all these years, I’ve finally identified them as Arum italicum, variously known as Italian Arum, Lords-and-Ladies, Orange Candleflower, etc.  They are considered invasive in the Pacific Northwest.