Utile Jack-in-the-Pulpit (Arisaema utile)

Family: Araceae | Edibility: Edible (2/5)

Arisaema utile is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.5 m (1ft 8in) by 0.3 m (1ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5. It is in flower from May to June. The species is dioecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but only one sex is to be found on any one plant so both male and female plants must be grown if seed is required). and is pollinated by Flies. The plant is not self-fertile.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Leaves and flowering spathes - cooked as a potherb. — Leaves and flowering spathes - cooked as a potherb.

Habitat & North American Range

Forest openings at elevations of 1800 - 3700 metres in Nepal. The margins of evergreen Tsuga forests, thickets at elevations of 2800-3100 metres. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)