Arisaema triphyllum (Jack-in-the-Pulpit, Bog Onion, Brown Dragon)
Michael's Opinion
Often we neglect our native plants as they are to us too common; this is the case with Jack-in-the Pulpit. It is a plant where you have to look for the flower since it is held below the foliage, but grown in groups it can produce a stunning early spring display in the woodland garden. Left to its own devices in rich, well drained soil it will slowly multiply to form large clumps that can be overgrown with other perennials later in the season.
Botanical Information
| Family | Araceae |
| Genus | Arisaema |
| Species | triphyllum |
| Category | Bulbs, Perennials, Wildflowers & Weeds |
| Origin | Eastern North America. |
| Pronunciation |
Details
| USDA Hardiness Zone | 4 - 9 |
| USDA Hardiness Ref. | |
| Canadian Hardiness Zone | 2a - 8a |
| Canada Hardiness Ref. | |
| RHS Hardiness Zone | H3 - H7 |
| RHS Hardiness Ref. | |
| Temperature (°C) | -40 - 0 |
| Temperature (°F) | -40 - 30 |
| Height | 30 - 65 cm |
| Spread | 30 - 45 cm |
| Growth | Slow |
| Flowering Period | May |
Description and Growing Information
| Cultivation | Plant in a sheltered, shady location and in soil that is moist but free-draining. It is best to plant them deep, 45 cm, as this will protect tubers through cold temperatures. Thick layers of mulch are advisable and during dry periods, especially in North America, watering may be required. Plants may be late to appear so be cautious and note locations when working in the garden in the spring. |
| Notable Specimens | Joany’s Woods, West Williams, Middlesex County, Ontario, Canada. |
| Habitat | Areas with moist soil with partial or full shade. |
| Leaf Description | The leaves are trifoliate, with groups of three leaves growing together at the top of one long stem produced from a corm; each leaflet is 8-15 cm long and 3-7 cm broad. |
| Fruit Description | The fruit are smooth, shiny green, 1 cm wide berries clustered on the thickened spadix. The fruits ripen in late summer and autumn, turning a bright red colour before the plants go dormant. Each berry produces 1-5 seeds. |
Photographs
