A woodland garden plant, Jack-in-the-Pulpit has unique flowers comprised of a spathe and spadix. Leaves have three parts and occur in a pair once the plant is mature enough to flower. Interesting flower shape and color. The flowers are replaced by a dense cluster of red berries. It is similar to another native, shade-loving plant known as Green Dragon, which is taller and showier, and favors similar site conditions.
Pollinator Type
Flies
Plant Type
Herbaceous perennial
Zone
4 to 9
Height
1 to 2 ft.
Spread
1 to 1.5 ft.
Light
Shade, Partial Shade
Moisture Requirement
Medium Soil, Wet Soil
Bloom Color
Green
Bloom Time
April, May
Design Considerations
Low tolerance for poorly drained soils or disturbance. Works best in a native shade garden. Most foliage will die back by the summer except for the stalks with berries.
Care and Maintenance
Prefers consistent moisture and well-drained soils high in organic matter.
Pest and Diseases
No major issues.
Establishment and Propagation
Typically established from root division or bareroot planting. Seeds have two layers of dormancy, requiring two cold, moist periods separated by a warm, moist period. If seeds are planted in the fall, they may not germinate until the second spring. Plants typically take 5 years to flower.
Commercial Availability
Occasionally available
Alternative Plant Selections
Green Dragon
Native Status
Illinois native statewide
Fall Color
Insignificant
Growth habit
Individual plants produce either one or two three-parted leaves. Will spread to form a colony.
Number of Caterpillars that Use this as a Host Plant
