Jack-in-the-pulpit

The common name of Jack-in-the-pulpit comes from the fascinating structure of its flower. A tiny upright flower spike looks like a tiny man standing in an old-fashioned raised pulpit. The top is hooded, partially hidden by a leaflike flower petal.

This perennial wildflower is also sometimes called bog onion, a reference to its cormlike roots that prefer moist soil, and wake robin, because it blooms in early spring. After flowering it develops a cluster of red berries, which attract birds and wildlife, but all parts of the plant are toxic to humans.

Light:

Part Sun, Shade

Zones:

2-7

Plant Type:

Perennial, Bulb

Plant Height:

6-30 inches tall

Plant Width:

6-12 inches wide

Flower Color:

maroon and white striped flowers

Landscape Uses:

Containers, Beds & Borders

Special Features:

Flowers, Fall Color, Attracts Birds, Attracts Hummingbirds, Tolerates Wet Soil, Deer Resistant, Easy to Grow

Top Varieties

---

Arisaema sikokianum

Arisaema sikokianum develops a maroon or burgundy "pulpit" with a central white "Jack." resembling an ice cream cone with a striped hood. It is a large species, sometimes growing 30 inches tall. Zones 5-9
view >

Jack-in-the-pulpit

(Arisaema triphyllum) bears purple-striped flowers that are subtle, yet striking in the woodland garden. Plant it in a grouping for greatest effect. Red berries in fall extend its season of interest. Zones 3-9
view >