Jack-in-the-pulpit
arisaema triphyllum
Also known as: ["Indian turnip","cuckoopint"]
Overview
A unique herbaceous perennial known for its distinctive spathe and spadix inflorescence, native to eastern North America.
Benefits & Perks
["seasonal color change","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Alismatales |
| Family: | Araceae |
| Genus: | Arisaema |
| Botanical Name: | Arisaema triphyllum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: woodland garden or shaded border
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–9"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Well-draining but moisture-retentive.
- Soil Type: Rich, moist, well-draining soil with high organic matter; similar to woodland soil.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or when foliage dies back in fall.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; remove only dead, damaged, or unsightly leaves.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full shade; 2–4 hours of morning sunlight or dappled light; avoid intense afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually if moving from indoors to outdoors; protect from direct sun to prevent leaf burn; ideal placement is under trees or in shaded garden beds.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Avoid direct sunlight; provide filtered light; adjust placement seasonally.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently to encourage deep roots; adjust based on season and dormancy; ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
Soil
moist, rich, well-drained loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7.0).
Use organic-rich soil; maintain consistent moisture; ensure good drainage.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates cooler spring/autumn temperatures; prefers consistent temperatures during growth.
Protect from frost; shield from intense heat; maintain moderate temperatures during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth
Fertilize only during active growth; dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; stop in dormancy.
Propagation
Methods
Division of rhizomes; occasionally by seed.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Carefully dig up rhizomes.
- Divide into sections with at least one bud each.
- Replant at the same depth.
- Water thoroughly.
Best Time: Early spring, just as the plant begins to emerge from dormancy.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand; can also be planted directly in the garden.
Hormone
Not typically required for rhizome division; optional for seeds to improve germination.
Timeline
Rhizomes may produce new growth within weeks; seeds can take several months to germinate and years to mature.
Tools Needed
Garden fork, sharp knife, clean pots, well-draining soil.
Quick Tips
Divide rhizomes when the plant is dormant; ensure each division has a bud; plant at the same depth as the parent.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip off dead leaves at the base; avoid cutting into healthy growth.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning required; focus on removing dead or damaged foliage to maintain appearance and health.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruners.
Checklist
Remove dead foliage; sanitize tools; avoid over-pruning; dispose of removed material.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring, before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger than the current one; ensure it has drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove the plant; trim any dead roots; place in a new pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot only when the rhizome outgrows its container or every 2–3 years; avoid disturbing the plant unnecessarily.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle rhizome carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at root zone; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; avoid wetting foliage; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry; ensure excess water drains away.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly during active growth (spring–summer), allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings; reduce frequency in fall and cease watering in winter dormancy.
Soil Improvement
Add compost, peat moss, or leaf mold to improve structure and fertility; ensure good drainage with perlite or sand if needed.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or premature dormancy in response to extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration, or induce early dormancy if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C) for extended periods.
Solution: Provide winter protection with mulch; move potted plants to a sheltered location; avoid exposing to frost.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or scorch; growth may slow; may enter early dormancy if temperatures exceed 85°F (29°C) for prolonged periods.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; fertilize monthly in growing season; cease in dormancy.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize monthly during spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are susceptible to the toxic effects of Arisaema triphyllum due to its calcium oxalate content. Ingestion can cause severe oral and gastrointestinal irritation, potentially leading to systemic issues.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe plant's calcium oxalate crystals can cause significant irritation to a dog's oral cavity, esophagus, and gastrointestinal tract. Ingestion may lead to severe discomfort and potential systemic effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicArisaema triphyllum contains calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause severe irritation and inflammation upon ingestion. The plant's tissues can also induce allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Jack-in-the-pulpit toxic to humans?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic if ingested, causing irritation to the mouth and digestive tract.
Q: Does Jack-in-the-pulpit attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Q: Can Jack-in-the-pulpit be grown in shade?
A: Yes, it thrives in partial to full shade conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Araceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
