Origin
Arisaema triphyllum (L.) Schott ssp. stewardsonii (Britt.) Huttleston, commonly known as Jack-in-the-pulpit, is a species of flowering plant in the Araceae family. The plant is native to the eastern regions of North America, including parts of Canada and the United States.
Common Names
Apart from Jack-in-the-pulpit, this plant is known by several other common names, including Brown dragon, Indian turnip, Wild turnip, and Devil's ear.
Uses
Jack-in-the-pulpit has both medicinal and culinary uses. The plant's roots contain calcium oxalate, which can cause extreme irritation and burning to the mouth and throat if ingested raw. However, properly cooked, the plant was reportedly used by Native Americans for a wide range of medicinal purposes, including as a treatment for colds and rheumatism. Today, the plant is primarily grown as an ornamental and is used in certain cosmetic products.
General Appearance
Jack-in-the-pulpit is a herbaceous perennial plant that can grow up to 24 inches tall. The plant typically features dark green leaves that are divided into three to seven leaflets. Its inflorescence is made up of a single greenish-yellow to greenish-brown spathe (the "pulpit") that encloses a slender, spadix (the "Jack"). The plant blooms from late spring to early summer and produces clusters of bright red berries in the fall.
Light Conditions
Arisaema triphyllum (L.) Schott ssp. stewardsonii (Britt.) Huttleston requires partial shade to grow optimally. This plant prefers a woodland setting with filtered sunlight. Excessive sunlight can cause sunburn and damage the foliage.
Temperature Requirements
This plant grows well in cool and temperate regions. Temperatures ranging between 50-75°F (10-24°C) support its growth. In high temperatures, this plant will require frequent watering to keep it hydrated. Extremely low temperatures can lead to the death of the plant.
Soil Type
Arisaema triphyllum (L.) Schott ssp. stewardsonii (Britt.) Huttleston requires moist, well-drained, and nutrient-rich soil to thrive. The ideal soil pH ranges from 5.5 to 6.5, which is slightly acidic. This plant will not grow well in waterlogged soil, and it may develop root rot if the soil is poorly drained.
Soil Texture
The soil should be loamy and rich in organic matter. It should not be too heavy or too sandy. Adding compost, peat moss, or well-rotted manure can improve the soil texture and fertility.
Watering Requirements
This plant requires consistent moisture levels to grow optimally. The soil should not dry out completely or remain waterlogged for an extended period. The frequency of watering varies depending on the temperature and humidity levels.
Cultivation
Arisaema triphyllum (L.) Schott ssp. stewardsonii (Britt.) Huttleston, also known as the Jack-in-the-pulpit, is a woodland herbaceous perennial plant native to North America. It grows well in USDA hardiness zones 4-9 and prefers moist but well-drained soil with a pH between 5.5-7.5.
Plant the corms of Arisaema triphyllum in the fall, preferably in a shady area. The depth should be about 2-3 inches with a spacing of 8-12 inches between corms. Cover with soil and water well.
Watering
Arisaema triphyllum requires regular watering and prefers moist soil. Ensure that the soil does not dry out completely, especially during the summer months.
Water the plant consistently, but avoid overwatering, as it can cause root rot. Mulching around the plant can help maintain soil moisture.
Fertilization
While Arisaema triphyllum does not require fertilization, a light application of a balanced fertilizer in the early spring can help promote healthy growth.
Use a slow-release or organic fertilizer and follow the manufacturer's instructions for application rates.
Pruning
There is no need for pruning Arisaema triphyllum, as it naturally dies back at the end of each growing season.
The plant can be left in place, and the dead foliage will provide nutrients for the next growing season. In the spring, new growth will emerge from the Corms.
Propagation of Arisaema triphyllum (L.) Schott ssp. stewardsonii (Britt.) Huttleston
The Arisaema triphyllum (L.) Schott ssp. stewardsonii (Britt.) Huttleston plant can be propagated through various methods as described below:
Seed Propagation
Seeds are the most common way to propagate this plant. Ripe berries can be collected and placed in a container. Add water and use your fingers to gently break the pulp and release the seeds. Rinse the seeds thoroughly and place them in a plastic bag filled with moist sphagnum moss.
Seal the plastic bag and store it in the refrigerator for approximately 3 months. Check the seeds periodically throughout this time and moisten the sphagnum moss if needed. After 3 months, remove the plastic bag from the refrigerator and allow it to come to room temperature. Take the seeds and plant them in pots filled with a well-draining potting mix.
Division Propagation
The Arisaema triphyllum (L.) Schott ssp. stewardsonii (Britt.) Huttleston plant can be propagated by division. It is best to divide the plant in the summer when it is actively growing. Dig up the clump of rhizomes and carefully separate them. Each of the resulting sections should have at least one bud and several roots. Pot the divisions in a well-draining mix and water thoroughly.
Offsets Propagation
Offsets are small plantlets that develop from the mother plant's roots. They can be removed and grown on their own. This method is similar to the division method. Spring is the best time to remove offsets because the plant is just coming out of dormancy. Carefully dig up the plant and separate the offsets from the main plant. Pot the offsets in a well-draining mix and water thoroughly.
Disease Management
Arisaema triphyllum (L.) Schott ssp. stewardsonii (Britt.) Huttleston is prone to several fungal and bacterial diseases. Here are some common diseases and ways to manage them:
- Anthracnose: This fungal disease causes irregular-shaped brown spots on the leaves. Remove and dispose of infected plant parts immediately. Spray with a fungicide.
- Bacterial Soft Rot: This bacterial disease causes soft, mushy areas on the plant's stem and leaves. Remove and dispose of infected plant parts immediately. Use a bactericide.
- Pythium and Phytophthora Root Rots: These soil-borne diseases cause root rot and yellowing of the leaves. Improve drainage and avoid overwatering. Use a fungicide to treat the soil.
- Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease causes a white, powdery substance to appear on the leaves and stems. Increase air circulation and decrease humidity. Use a fungicide if necessary.
Pest Management
Arisaema triphyllum (L.) Schott ssp. stewardsonii (Britt.) Huttleston is also susceptible to several pests. Here are some common pests and ways to manage them:
- Slugs and Snails: These pests like to feed on the leaves of the plant. Use a slug and snail bait or trap to control their population.
- Spider Mites: These tiny pests cause yellowing and stippling of the leaves. Spray the plant with water to remove them and use an insecticidal soap.
- Thrips: These pests cause distorted and discolored leaves. Use sticky traps to catch them and spray the plant with an insecticidal soap.
- Deer: These animals love to munch on the leaves and stems of the plant. Use a repellent spray or fencing to keep them away.
