Jack-in-the-pulpit is anything but fussy and requires no maintenance. To keep it happy, plant in humus-rich soil that retains moisture without staying soggy. Jack-in-the-pulpit can be planted or transplanted at any time of the year when the soil is workable—just add lots of organic matter (leaf compost or peat moss) before planting. To form new colonies, transplant the seedlings that spring up around the parent plants.
Jack-in-the-pulpit is widespread in the woods of the eastern United States. Heights and colors vary, even in the same area. “Jack” (the reproductive organs, also called the spadix, of this fanciful plant) stands in a “pulpit” (a cuplike structure that is covered by a spathe, a colorful bract that arches over). The unusual blossoms remain attractive for several weeks before the fruits (mature Jacks) swell to a bright emerald green, then turn to scarlet red. Although not poisonous, the fruits cause a severe irritation to the mouth. Since the fruits look like candy, take care to keep small children away. Native Americans used the tubers to make a starchy food by boiling out the irritant and grinding and drying the mash into a type of flour.
Jack-in-the-pulpit is a wildflower that belongs in woodland or shady gardens, where it will put on an unusual show. Since it will tolerate heavy shade, try it on the north side of buildings and under evergreen trees. It looks really striking planted amid low-growing ferns that will hide the bare spot left when the Jack goes dormant in midsummer. This plant seeds itself to form a colony, but it will never become an invasive pest.
ZONES: 4–9
BLOOM TIME: Late spring to early summer
LIGHT: Part to full shade
HEIGHT: 12–30 inches
INTEREST: Exotic flowers in shades of green and purple; brilliant scarlet fruit clusters follow