Arisaema

Jack-in-the-pulpits

Asian Jack-in-the-pulpits continue to increase in popularity. The "flowers" (inflorescences) consist of a club-shaped or whip-like appendage (the spadix) inside a hooded tube (the spathe). These are, respectively, the "jack" and the "pulpit". They are variously beautiful or bizarre, but they always elicit comment in the garden. Tall species are great "pop-up" plants among shade perennials such as hostas and ferns. Shorter species are good rock garden plants, or they may be used as specimens or massed in the shade garden. All can produce showy red or orange heads of fruit in late summer to fall.

We sell blooming size 4 to 7 year old corms. Fall shipments are typically shipped in late fall and can be planted upon receipt as long as the ground is not frozen. They may also be stored in the refrigerator during the winter months but should be checked periodically. Once the stored tuber begins to elongate and roots begin to appear, it should be planted outside if possible or potted in a well-drained potting mix and stored in a cool greenhouse, garage or cold frame. Dormant Arisaemas should not be watered until foliage begins to appear and then very lightly and only when dry.

Arisaemas are easily grown if their basic requirements are met.

• Drainage is the most critical point; nearly all species do best in a loose, well-drained soil. They do especially well in raised beds in a mix of coarse sand and compost or pine bark.
• They require shade in summer, and regular watering until late summer. They can be dry in late summer through the following spring.
• We plant corms of most species five or six inches deep. Corms of dwarf species can be planted about 3 inches deep.
• We mulch the planting area at least for the first winter. Mulching will also help protect species of borderline hardiness in cold climates.

To view the Arisaema plant list, click here.