The mystique of Jack-in-the-Pulpit: A native gem of the forest

In the forest surrounding our house lies a botanical marvel that whispers tales of mystery: Arisaema triphyllum, commonly known as Jack-in-the-Pulpit. This native perennial graces the woodland floor with its enigmatic presence, captivating all who venture into its domain.

The distinctive inflorescence of Arisaema triphyllum

Arisaema triphyllum, with its distinctive inflorescence consisting of a hooded spathe (the “pulpit”) enveloping a central spadix (“Jack”), stands as a testament to nature’s artistry. Its Latin name, Arisaema, stems from the Greek words ‘aris,’ meaning arum, and ‘haima,’ meaning blood, alluding to the plant’s blood-red berries.

Triphyllum, on the other hand, references its characteristic three-lobed leaf structure, a defining feature of this intriguing species.

The genus Arisaema is part of the Araceae family, commonly known as the aroids. It’s a relative of many familiar houseplants, including monstera, philodendron, and peace lily.

Each leaf is indeed divided into three leaflets, typically broad and ovate, with pointed tips. The leaflets are attached to a central stalk, or petiole, which emerges from the underground rhizome. The overall appearance of the foliage is lush green and emerges in early spring.

Spathe and spadix of Arisaema triphyllum

Soon, the spathe-and-spadix ensemble takes center stage. The spathe, mottled in hues of green and purple, cradles the spadix adorned with tiny flowers, a mesmerizing spectacle reminiscent of a preacher standing within a pulpit.

But Arisaema triphyllum is more than just a curious plant—it plays a key role in the forest ecosystem. Its spadix holds tiny flowers, barely visible. Arisaema triphyllum is a dioecious plant, meaning individual plants produce either male or female flowers, but not both at the same time. Depending on factors like the plant’s age, size, and energy reserves, some may be functionally male one year and female another. I read that younger or less vigorous plants tend to be male, while older, stronger ones often become female, since producing seeds requires more resources.

Fungus gnats, lured by a faint scent, take care of pollination. These small flies are attracted to damp, shady environments and decaying organic matter. These conditions often match the habitat of Arisaema triphyllum. Their attraction to the plant’s faint odour helps ensure pollination as they move from one flower to the next. Later in the season, clusters of bright red berries offer food to birds and small mammals, helping to sustain life in the forest.

A geophyte in the forest

Arisaema triphyllum is classified as a geophyte. Its underground storage organ allows it to take advantage of early spring warmth and light, sending up shoots before the forest canopy leafs out. Like trilliums and other spring natives, it makes the most of this brief window to grow and bloom.

Despite its beauty and role in the ecosystem, Arisaema triphyllum still holds a bit of mystery. Its changing form and brief spring appearance make it all the more fascinating—one of those plants that quietly invites you to stop and take a closer look.

Illustration from Wild Flowers of New York (1918)

The life cycle of Arisaema triphyllum

Under ideal conditions, Arisaema triphyllum typically takes about 2 to 4 years to reach flowering size from seed. In less favorable settings—such as crowded plantings or poor soil—it may take considerably longer, sometimes 5 to 7 years or more. Factors like soil composition, moisture, and light levels all influence the plant’s growth rate.

Once established, Jack-in-the-pulpit continues to grow and multiply, gradually forming colonies via its rhizomatous roots. In my garden, several colonies thrive in dappled shade just a few feet from the forest edge, beneath oaks and maples.

Growing Jack-in-the-pulpit

If you come across a colony of Jack-in-the-pulpit in the wild, it’s best to admire it without disturbing it. Fortunately, many nurseries and garden centers now offer cultivated corms for home gardeners interested in growing this woodland native in suitable conditions.

Soak the roots for a few hours before planting. Choose a shady spot with slightly acidic soil. Dig a wide hole so the roots can spread. If you buy a plant, set it at the same depth it grew in the pot. Water thoroughly after planting, then wait about a month before fertilizing. A layer of mulch will help retain moisture and warm the soil to encourage growth.

More Arisaema species

Arisaema triphyllum is fairly common in eastern North America, from Texas to the Canadian Maritimes. It’s hard to mistake it for its rarer cousin, Arisaema dracontium, also known as the green dragon. While both are similar, the green dragon usually has just one large, long-stemmed leaf divided into 7 to 15 narrow, lance-shaped leaflets—unlike the Jack-in-the-pulpit’s three. Its spadix is slimmer and extends well beyond a smaller, greenish hood.

Botanical illustration of Arisaema dracontium by Endicott in John Torrey, A Flora of the State of New York, 1843

The Arisaema genus boasts over 150 species found across the globe. The greatest diversity is concentrated in Asia, particularly in China, Japan, and the Himalayas. There, species like Arisaema sikokianum and Arisaema consanguineum are celebrated for their striking forms and dramatic coloring. Arisaema ringens (shown here), commonly known as Japanese cobra-lilu, is a standout species from Japan and Korea. I was able to admire a specimen with its bold hooded spathe and trifoliate leaves at the JC Raulston Arboretum in Raleigh, North Carolina. Africa and India also host a few unique species. This wide distribution reflects the adaptability and botanical intrigue of the genus.

As a caretaker of the woods around my home, I feel responsible for protecting this native gem. Arisaema triphyllum is a powerful reminder of nature’s quiet beauty and strength. It inspires me to appreciate and look after the many wild wonders that share these forests.

For the curious: