Skunk Cabbage: Symplocarpus foetidus

Common name: Skunk Cabbage
Genus /Species: Symplocarpus foetidus

Description: Large 1-2 ft. leaves cleary scented with skunk-like ofor.
Flowers appearing before leaves in Feb-march.
Surrounding patch, even in snow is clear due to thermogenesis of salicylic acid and salicylates in the flower. Temperature generated may be 60 F above surrounding air temperature to attract pollinators including flies and other cold insects.

Medicinal and other uses: anitspasmodic for epilepsy, coughs, asthma
external use for itching and rheutism. Sniffed for relief of migranes.
Eating roots can cause inflammation; considered toxic.

Clublike organs within spather: pollen and female organs

Massive release of pollen

Photos: E. Iglich eiglich@mcdaniel.edu