**Description:** A unique woodland wildflower with a hooded "pulpit" (spathe) covering a central stalk (spadix). Often striped purple or green.
**Size:** 1 to 2 feet tall.
**Life Cycle:** These plants can change sex year-to-year; young or stressed plants are male, while older, healthier plants become female to produce seeds.
**Identification:** Contains calcium oxalate crystals which cause a burning sensation if eaten raw—a defense against deer.
**Habitat:** Rich, moist deciduous woods, producing brilliant red berries in late summer.