Spadix (flowers) inside maroon spathe -Symplocarpus foetidus - Skunk Cabbage
Symplocarpus foetidus - (Skunk Cabbage) - melting snow as it sprouts up from the ground
Symplocarpus foetidus - (Skunk Cabbage) full leaf in early summer
Symplocarpus foetidus - Skunk Cabbage

Skunk Cabbage

Symplocarpus foetidus

  • Maroon spathe opens on one side to reveal green-yellow flowers (spadix)
  • Large green leaves unfold as flowers fade
  • Foliage reaches its maximum size by early summer (60cm x 30cm)
  • Both leaves and flowers emit a skunk-like smell
  • Bloom Time: February to May

ZONE:
3

COLOUR:
Purple

HEIGHT:
40-60 cm

SPREAD:
60 cm

Currently Unavailable
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Growing and Maintenance Tips:


Plant in partial to full shade in a consistently moist or wet, mucky soil. May also be found in shallow standing waters, 2-5 cm in depth. Naturally found in wet deciduous forests, swamps, or shady wetlands. In late summer, leaves will wither away, especially if insufficient water is available. 

Additional Notes about Skunk Cabbage:


Native to Ontario

  • Cabbage-like leaves, when bruised, have a skunk-like odour, hence its common name.
  • Flowers also emit a skunk odour that attracts flies, helping with pollination.
  • A chemical process allows the flowers to heat up to 15 degrees Celsius to help melt through a late winter snow cover.

Characteristics & Attributes


GROWTH RATE:
Medium
FLOWERING TIME:
Early Spring
FOLIAGE COLOR:
Green