Sunday, August 3, 2008

Jack in the Pulpit


In spring this tuberous-rooted perennial displays a fleshy, erect flower stalk (spadix) partially enclosed by a sheath-like hood (spathe). At this dry time of year, a cluster of scarlet fruits crowded on a stem is all that remains of the plant above ground. These berries are conspicuous and attractive but are considered toxic to humans and to livestock.

Scientific name: Arum maculatum
Italian common name: Cigaro scuro
English common name: Jack in the Pulpit, Cuckoo-pint

No comments: