Its carrion odor attracts bees, flies and gnats which pollinate it. The large leaves, which appear later and grow to the size of rhubarb leaves, have this same disagreeable smell when bruised. The spathe is green, striped with purple or brown depending upon the amount of shade. Many insects are trapped inside it. The flower is followed by a large close cluster of green berries which become brilliant red in autumn.
Most arums are aromatic.
Argonne National Laboratory, Division of Educational Programs, Harold Myron, Ph.D., Division Director.