Jack-in-the-Pulpit

This was a great find for me today as I have been searching for it for a long time. The Jack-in-the Pulpit is among the "trilliums", all having 3 leaves . They bloom early summer and in the fall when the flower drops off some will have vermilion red berries, but only if they have been pollinated by insects.

These plants love dark and very moist areas in the edges of the woods and along creek banks. They are often found in small colonies. They usually grow to about 18 inches. It is a perennial herb and very unique. Common names are Indian Turnip, Indian Almond, Marsh Pepper, Cuckoo Flower and Devil's Ears.

There are several types of these plants such as Lady's Slipper and the Pitcher Plant some being related to the Orchid family. They are similar in appearance but this one is easily identified by its green and white bloom with purple swirls of color down inside the bloom. They are toxic to humans, but the berries are a major food source to birds and wildlife.

I found a short poem written by Clara Smith documented before the 1920s about this plant:

"Jack-in-the Pulpit

Preaches today

Under the green leaves,

Just over the way."

Native Americans used this plant to make teas to drink for sore throats and as an expectorant.

"For the preaching of the cross is them that perish foolishness but unto us which are saved it is the power of GOD."

I Corinthians 1:18