What's eating my arum italicum?

Arum italicum is mainly grown outdoors in gardens where slugs and snails cause the most damage to its large, arrow-shaped leaves. Aphids can colonize soft new growth in spring. In mild climates where it is kept as a containerized houseplant, fungus gnats may attack roots. Berries attract birds, which disperse seed.

Ragged holes and slime trails on leaves, especially on young emerging foliage in autumn and spring Apply iron phosphate pellets (pet-safe) around plants; use beer traps; hand-pick at night; remove nearby debris

Clusters of green or black insects on new shoots; distorted leaves and sticky honeydew Blast off with a strong water jet; treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil; encourage ladybirds and lacewings

Birds eat the bright red berries in autumn, spreading seed but not directly harming the plant; may disturb surrounding soil Net plants if self-seeding in unwanted areas; generally not harmful — seed dispersal is the main concern