Arisarum proboscideum

mouse plant

  • © Judy Newton

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Outstanding Qualities

Arisarum proboscideum is an herbaceous woodland perennial that flowers in April, amusing adults as well as children with its whimsical flowers. Maroon and white flowers with tail-like tips hide under the leaves, resembling the back ends of mice. The flowers are long lasting in indoor arrangements. Mouse plant’s glossy spade-shaped leaves make a low groundcover until going dormant in midsummer. The early foliage makes a nice foil for spring-flowering woodland bulbs.

Quick Facts

Plant Type: perennial

Growth Habit: spreading

Foliage Type: deciduous

Plant Height (10-year): 0 ft. 6 in. (0.15 meters)

Plant Width/Spread (10-year): 1 ft. 6 in. (0.46 meters)

Hardiness: USDA Zones 7 to 9

Flower Color: purple, white

Flowering Time: spring

Sun/Light Exposure: light to deep shade

Water Requirements: drought tolerant when established

Colors & Combos

Great Plant Combinations:

Great Color Contrasts: blue, silver, white

Great Color Partners: Green, brown

Culture Notes

Mouse plant will grow best in a rich well-drained soil. Choose a location with light to open shade or morning sun but avoid the hot afternoon sun. This small plant will often go dormant in early summer to survive our dry weather, but it will return next year undamaged