The mouse tail plant which is also
called the Arisarum mouse plant is a member of the Arum family and also a
cousin to jack-in-the-pulpit. Arisarum mouse plant is native to Spain and
Italy, this plant is a tiny interesting woodland plant that can be hard to
find. The mouse tail plants are easy keepers, hardy to freezing temperatures,
and also perfect for novice gardeners. Continue reading to learn more about
growing mouse tail arums.
Information about Mouse Tail Plants
Arisarum mouse plants have extremely
unusual, chocolate-colored flowers that are cylindrical in shape and it sit
below the leaves with only little “tails” visible. When the plant flowers bunch
together, they give the appearance of a family of mice, hence the name. The leaves
are arrow-shaped and they have a glossy, green color. Mice appear in very early
spring and reach a mature height of just under six inches with an interesting
mat-forming habit. In most location, by August, the plant becomes dormant. Arisarum
mouse plant are used commonly as a groundcover. Arisarum mouse plant spread
quickly and is an excellent option for hard-to-fill areas.
Growing Arisarum mouse plants
Arisarum mouse plant is easily
propagated by dividing the tubers when the plant is dormant. Arisarum mouse
plant enjoys morning sun and afternoon shade and in a moist location, the plant
will spread rapidly once established. The plant can be invasive, so if you do
not want it to take over you can plant it in a container. Arisarum mouse plant makes
an ideal rock garden, window box, or container plant and it provide an
interesting spring display no matter where it is planted. Make sure you provide
plenty of rich soil and mix in a little compost before planting. A two inch (5
cm.) layer of mulch will protect the plant over the winter and also help to
retain moisture.
Care of Arisarum Mouse Plant
Arisarum mouse plant care is really
quite easy. Just provide plenty of water when the plant is establishing and
then also water when the soil feels dry to touch. You will need to provide more
water if you are growing the mouse tail plants in a container. You can easily apply
compost tea or liquid fertilizer every 2 weeks during the growing season for
healthy foliage and blooming. The mouse tail plants are resistant to most bugs
and disease, but spider mites are attracted to it. If you actually notice
mites, you can spray the plant with an organic garlic pest control spray. The
main risk to mouse tail plants is too much moisture during the dormancy period.
Post a Comment