How to Grow Jack-in-the-Pulpit
Arisaema triphyllum
Jack-in-the-Pulpit is a hardy, long-lived woodland perennial grown for its unique hooded spring flowers and bright red autumn berries. Plant corms in autumn, 5-8 cm deep, in moist, humus-rich, well-drained soil in part to full shade. Protect newly planted corms from squirrels with wire mesh. Do not disturb once established — patience is rewarded with a long-lived colony. Let all foliage die back naturally each summer; never cut it while green. All parts are toxic; handle with gloves and keep away from pets.
When to Start
Plant directly outdoors once soil temperature reaches 10°C. No seed starting needed — grow from bulbs, tubers, or sets.
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Growth Stages
Approximate days from start
Care Essentials
- No regular feeding needed. Top-dress with leaf mould or compost in autumn to enrich the woodland soil.
- All parts of Jack-in-the-Pulpit contain calcium oxalate crystals and are toxic if eaten raw — handle with gloves. The plant is gender-switching; small corms produce male flowers, larger corms female. Established plants reliably produce striking clusters of bright red berries in autumn. Very long-lived once settled. Black walnut tolerant.
Growing Conditions
Pet Safety
- Direct sow
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Spacing & Planting
| Plant spacing | 20 cm |
| Row spacing | 25 cm |
| Mature height | 55 cm |
| Mature spread | 35 cm |
Plant 15-30 cm apart in informal woodland drifts. Corms multiply slowly over years to form naturalistic groups.
Growing Conditions
| Photoperiod sensitivity | day neutral |
Frequently Asked Questions
- How far apart should I plant Jack-in-the-Pulpit?
- Plant Jack-in-the-Pulpit 20cm apart with 25cm between rows.
- Is Jack-in-the-Pulpit frost hardy?
- Jack-in-the-Pulpit is classified as Hardy.
