White Arrow Arum

Peltandra sagittifolia

Physical Characteristics

Peltandra sagittifolia is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.2 m (0ft 8in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7. It is in flower from May to June. The species is monoecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but both sexes can be found on the same plant). Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid and neutral soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers wet soil and can grow in water.

Distribution

South-eastern N. America - North Carolina to Florida.

Habitats

Pond; Bog Garden;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Root Edible Uses: Root - must be well cooked in order to destroy an acrimonious principle, see the notes above on toxicity[95]. The root contains much farinaceous material[1, 105, 161] and can weigh up to 2.7 kilos each[95]. Fruit[105]. No more details but caution is advised - see the notes above on toxicity.

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

The plant is rich in calcium oxylate, this is toxic and if consumed makes the mouth and digestive tract feel as though hundreds of tiny needles are being stuck into it. However, calcium oxylate is easily destroyed by thoroughly cooking or drying the plant[95].