Jack-in-the-Pulpit, Cleveland Metroparks, Ohio
 
   
  Jack-in-the-pulpit (Arisaema triphyllum) is also commonly known by the names bog onion, brown dragon, Indian turnip, wild turnip and wake robin. It is a herbaceous perennial plant that is native to eastern North America, occurring in moist woodlands and thickets from Nova Scotia west to Minnesota, and south to southern Florida. Because the plant contains calcium oxalate crystals in all parts, consumption of the raw plant results in a powerful burning sensation. It can cause irritation of the mouth and digestive system, and on rare occasions the swelling of the mouth and throat may be severe enough to affect breathing.  
 
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Copyright 2008 Dean M. Chriss
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