Skill Level: Intermediate
Arisaema triphyllum, is a Jack in the Pulpit native to eastern North America and one of the easiest to start from seed. In its native range, it emerges in early spring and blooms between April and May. At Spirithouse Gardens, it emerges in mid-spring, much earlier than others of it’s genus which can surface as late as June, and blooms by early to mid summer. It is 12–24 inches tall, with distinctive three part leaves and the hooded spathe that gives the plant its name. In late summer, the spadix ripens into a glowing column of red berries — a dramatic finale in the shade garden.
This species thrives in part shade, not full shade and prefers moist, humus rich woodland soil. That said, it has proven to be one of the more forgiving Arisaema in terms of soil requirements we grow. If given consistent moisture, leaves do not go summer dormant as can sometimes be the case. We provide protection from winter wet due to our heavier soil.
Our Seed Germinating Experience
Although the plant itself is adaptable, the seed earns an intermediate rating because it requires cold stratification. We sowed our batch in December in an unheated Zone 8 greenhouse, and germination in February was excellent: about 90% from seed that had been dried for less than six months. Several sources suggest that A. triphyllum produces orthodox seeds, capable of short term dry storage, though we haven’t formally tested long term viability. What we can say with confidence is that fresh, properly stratified seed germinates reliably and produces sturdy, easy to grow seedlings. Seed grown plants can show a wide variability in flower colouring ranging from near green to heavily striped purple and green-tinted white. Expect seed sown plants to bloom in their second year.
Photo: wcbotanicalclub.org
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