Jack-in-the-Pulpit (Arisaema triphyllum) © William Britten use with permission only

Jack-in-the-Pulpit (Arisaema triphyllum) can be found along rich hillsides in late April and May. The spathe (pulpit) might be green or come with purple stripes. The inflorescence (Jack) has tiny flowers at its base. This Smoky Mtns wildflower is one of only five living organisms that can change sexes.

If you look carefully along hillside trails such as Chestnut Top, you can spot one of these. I also saw several along Laurel Creek Rd near the rock walls where the Bleeding Hearts grow. Later in the summer the spathe will be gone and you will see bright red berries.

The William Britten Gallery on Glades Rd offers my complete collection of Smoky Mtns photographs. Look for me in the Morning Mist Village collection of shops.

Smoky Mtns wildflower © William Britten use with permission only