Arum maculatum is a woodland perennial native to Europe and temperate regions. Seed germination is slow and requires cold stratification to overcome dormancy. Fresh seeds germinate faster than stored seeds.
Before sowing
Stratification
fria · 60 d · 6°C
Soak
18 h Soak seeds for 12-24 hours before sowing
Cold stratification required; warm pretreatment may speed process
Sowing
Substrate
Moist, well-draining, humus-rich soil with organic matter
Depth
1cm
Temperature
15°C
Moisture
alta
Container
Greenhouse, cold frame, or pots with good drainage
Day/night swing
Warm pretreatment (20-25°C) followed by cold stratification improves germination
What to expect
Step 1
Pre-treat the seed
Step 2
Sow at 1cm · 15°C
Day 20–180
Seedlings emerge
Tips
Sow fresh seeds immediately after harvest; stored seed requires spring sowing. Remove fleshy pulp before sowing. Light aids germination - surface sow or sow shallowly. Keep substrate continuously moist. Seedlings require undisturbed first-year growth. Plant is highly toxic - handle with gloves.
Sources: PFAF Database, New Phytologist (Pritchard 1993), Ferri Seeds, Gardeners HQ, Plant Sam, RHS, Strictly Medicinal Seeds
