Arisaema triphyllum - Herbaceous Plants,Perennial,Wildflowers - Jack In The Pulpit Page

Looking for an eye-catching addition to your woodland garden? Look no further than the Arisaema triphyllum, also known as Jack in the Pulpit. This striking plant features groups of three trifoliate leaves atop a long stem produced from a corm. It prefers woodland soil and boasts red berries in the fall, making it a beautiful addition to any naturalistic landscape. But beware – the plant's raw material contains calcium oxalate crystals that can cause powerful burning sensations, as well as irritation of the mouth and digestive system. However, when properly dried or cooked, the plant can be eaten as a root vegetable. Native Americans have used preparations of the root to treat sore eyes, as well as rheumatism, bronchitis, snakebites, and even to induce sterility. Interestingly, the Meskwaki Indians also used the plant to cause pain and death in their enemies by mixing the herb's corm with meat and leaving it out for their enemies to find. The plant is hardy to USDA plant hardiness zone 3 and can be propagated from seed. Seedlings need three or more years of growth before they're large enough to flower. The plant is also not self-pollinating, requiring male flowers from a different plant to pollinate female flowers. If you're looking to add an intriguing and unique plant to your landscape, Jack in the Pulpit is an excellent choice.