Iconic forest plant with a distinctive namesake flowering structure that appears in April and May, consisting of an erect spike (called a “spadix”—the Jack) enclosed by a spathe, which also extends over the top like a hood (the pulpit). The spathe is often striped, usually green, and may also include shades of brown and purple. A blooming-sized plant has two leaves with long petioles, generally divided into three leaflets. Plants grow singly or in colonies, with most individuals dying back by midsummer although, under proper conditions, mature plants produce red berries available for wildlife to eat by late summer. Plant parts contain calcium oxalate, which is considered toxic to humans if ingested.

Photo: Steve R. Turner (courtesy of missouriplants.com)