Menu
Log in
site_logo

Arisaema concinnum Schott

Introduction & Overview

Common and Scientific Names

  • Scientific Name: Arisaema concinnum Schott
  • Common Name: Elegant Jack-in-the-Pulpit

Quick Facts

  • Origin: Native to the subtropical and tropical regions of Southeast Asia
  • Features: Admired for its elegant and distinctive spathes; it thrives in moist, shaded environments and is a favorite among collectors for its unusual appearance

Taxonomy & Classification

  • Genus: Arisaema
  • Botanical Background: Described by botanist Heinrich Wilhelm Schott, a prominent figure in the study of the Araceae family, during the 19th century.

Natural Habitat & Distribution

  • Geographical Range: Native to the tropical and subtropical regions of Southeast Asia, particularly found in countries like China, India, and Nepal.
  • Environment: Thrives in shaded, moist environments such as temperate forests or mountain slopes; prefers well-drained, humus-rich soils and requires high humidity levels and consistent moisture to grow well.

Morphological Characteristics

Leaves

  • Large, glossy, and divided into leaflets
  • They exhibit a striking green coloration with occasional dark markings along the veins, providing an attractive contrast

Inflorescence (Spadix & Spathe)

  • Consists of a unique spathe that is pale green to purplish with a slight sheen
  • The spadix is dark purple, and the flowers are surrounded by the hood-like spathe
  • Uses its distinctive coloration to attract pollinators like beetles and flies

Growth Habit

  • A terrestrial plant that grows from a rhizome
  • Does not climb or spread horizontally but remains as an upright, compact plant
  • Its growth is slow and steady, typically reaching heights of 20-30 cm

Cultivation & Care

Light Requirements

  • Prefers moderate to low light, ideal for shaded areas or filtered sunlight
  • Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves

Watering & Humidity

  • Water consistently to keep the soil moist, but not soggy
  • Thrives in high humidity, ideally above 60%
  • Perfect for terrariums or shaded garden beds with good air circulation

Soil & Potting Mix

  • A well-draining, slightly acidic potting mix with organic matter is recommended
  • A mix of peat, perlite, and pine bark is often used to replicate its natural habitat

Temperature & Fertilizer

  • Maintain temperatures between 15°C to 25°C
  • Balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength monthly

Propagation Methods

Division and Cuttings

  • Typically done through division of the rhizomes in spring before new growth begins
  • Ensure each division has at least one healthy growing shoot

Seeds

  • Require a long germination period
  • Must be kept in consistently moist conditions with temperatures around 20°C to promote germination

Common Pests & Diseases

Typical Issues

  • Spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs
  • Root rot can also occur if the soil is kept too wet

Treatment Recommendations

  • Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to treat pest infestations
  • Ensure well-draining soil and avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot

Notable Traits & Uses

  • Have been used for their purported medicinal properties, although they must be handled with care due to the plant's toxicity
  • The elegant spathe and glossy leaves make it prized for ornamental use in shady gardens and botanical collections

Conservation & Availability

Wild Population Status

  • While not currently classified as endangered, habitat destruction poses a threat to its natural populations
  • Conservation efforts focus on preserving its native forest habitats

Market Availability

  • Somewhat rare in the horticultural trade
  • Available through specialty plant nurseries and botanical gardens, often in limited quantities

References & Resources

Further Reading

Powered by Wild Apricot Membership Software
Document