Jack-in-the-Pulpit

Jack-in-the-Pulpit

Arisaema triphyllum ssp. triphyllum

One of the most distinctive native woodland plants, Jack-in-the-Pulpit produces a striking hooded flower structure that resembles a preacher standing in a pulpit. The green or purplish striped hood (spathe) arches over a central column (spadix), creating one of the most recognizable wildflowers of eastern North American forests.

In spring, one or two sets of three broad leaflets rise above the forest floor, giving the plant its species name triphyllum, meaning “three leaves.” By late summer, the flower structure transforms into a tight cluster of bright red berries that provide food for wildlife.

A Unique Woodland Wildflower

Jack-in-the-Pulpit is part of the arum family and grows slowly in rich forest soils. Individual plants may change from male to female as they mature, depending on the amount of energy stored in their underground corms.

Because of its unusual form and shade tolerance, it is a prized plant for woodland gardens and natural forest plantings.

A Plant of Rich Forest Floors

Jack-in-the-Pulpit grows naturally in moist deciduous forests, floodplain woodlands, and shaded stream banks where soils remain rich in organic matter. It thrives in dappled shade beneath mature trees and blends beautifully with other native woodland species.

Once established, it can live for many years in stable forest environments.

Growing Information

Height: 1–2 ft

Spread: 1–1.5 ft

Light: Part shade to full shade

Soil: Moist, rich woodland soils

Hardiness: Zone 3–8

Growth Rate: Slow to moderate

Best planted in woodland gardens, forest restorations, shaded borders, and naturalized understory plantings.

Ecological Importance

Jack-in-the-Pulpit:

Provides early season shelter and habitat for woodland insects

Produces berries that feed birds and small mammals

Contributes to healthy forest understory diversity

Supports woodland ecosystem stability

Associated Woodland Species

Common companions in natural woodland plant communities include:

• Wild Ginger (Asarum canadense)
• Large-leaved Aster (Eurybia macrophylla)
• White Wood Aster (Eurybia divaricata)
• Foamflower (Tiarella cordifolia)
• Woodland Phlox (Phlox divaricata)
• Athyrium angustum – Northern Lady Fern
• Trillium (Trillium grandiflorum)

Planting these species together helps recreate layered woodland ecosystems that support pollinators, insects, and forest wildlife.

Planting to Protect
Restoring to Thrive
Origin Native Plants

3.5 inch Pots