Strange (at least to me) plant. ID please

[rscott74]

I saw these a few days ago - what are they? I took a picture of one in the Botanical Gardens of Durham University in July (nice to visit by the way) which stood on its own. The posted image was taken next to a farm track in an area well shaded by mature trees. ID and a bit of info would be great.

[Tiggrx]

Lords-and-ladies (Arum maculatum).

[rscott74]

Thanks Tiggrx. in my book it looks nothing like this - I really should get a better reference booK! I've seen mention of L&L in other posts. Next year I'll look for them earlier before what I assume is the fruiting/seeding stage.

[rscott74]

Just had a look at my book which states "British Isles commonest in S". If they are uncommon in NE England should I submit a formal record?

[Lance Morgan]

yes its lords and lady's or Cuckoo Pint. Funny name

[Hobjob]

Originally Posted by rscott74

Thanks Tiggrx. in my book it looks nothing like this - I really should get a better reference booK! I've seen mention of L&L in other posts. Next year I'll look for them earlier before what I assume is the fruiting/seeding stage.

Not all flower books give pictures of the fruits - after all they are
not flowers!!

There is also a compromise in all flowers books between the information
and available space / size / weight.

[jordanno]

they do look strange first time you see them

[clicka15]

They certainly are common down here on the south coast. Most dark, damp areas within hedgerows seem to have them. They look bizarre - but are quite attractive all the same.

Steven.

[richardkm]

This seems to have been a good year for them, I've seen quite a few fruiting plants, much bigger than any I've seen in the past.

[Jez]

Check out my vernacular names thread if you would like to know some other folk names for them if your interested?