Symplocarpus foetidus
eastern skunk cabbage
Overview
Symplocarpus foetidus, eastern skunk cabbage, is a long-lived herbaceous perennial of wetlands in the arum family, growing from a thick, vertical underground rhizome that pulls itself deeper into the mud each year. In late winter and early spring, before the leaves, it sends up a mottled purple-brown to greenish hooded spathe 3-6 inches (8-15 cm) tall, enclosing a knob-like spadix covered in tiny flowers. The flowering structure generates its own heat, often melting the surrounding snow and holding an interior temperature well above freezing. After flowering, large, bright green, oval to heart-shaped leaves 1-2 feet (30-60 cm) long unfurl in a rosette, dying back by midsummer. Bruised or torn tissue gives off a strong, skunky, garlic-like odor that draws early flies and beetles as pollinators. The plant grows in seeps, swamps, and wet woodland soils and can live for decades. All parts contain calcium oxalate crystals that cause intense burning and swelling if eaten raw and can irritate skin. It is native to eastern North America.
Native Range
Native to eastern North America, from Quebec and Ontario south to Georgia and west to Minnesota and Iowa. It grows in wet woodlands, swamps, seeps, and stream margins on consistently saturated soil. A closely related species occurs in northeastern Asia.Suggested Uses
Used in bog gardens, rain gardens, and the wet margins of native woodland plantings where soil stays saturated. It suits naturalistic and conservation plantings rather than formal beds. It adds early-season interest in wet ground when little else is growing.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height1' - 2'
Width/Spread2' - 3'
Reaches mature size in approximately 6 years
Bloom Information
Flowers very early, from late winter into early spring, often February to April while snow may still lie on the ground. The heat generated by the spadix helps volatilize its odor and keeps pollinating flies and beetles active in cold weather. Flowering occurs well before the leaves expand.
Detailed Descriptions
Foliage Description
bright greenGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 2-6 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight