Description
Eastern skunk cabbage has leaves which are large. It has contractile roots which contract after growing into the earth.
Skunk cabbage is one of the first flowers to bloom in the spring. The three inch flower stem produces brown flowers, and will grow right through the receding snow in the spring. Flowers produce berry-like fruit.
What is most memorable about an encounter with Skunk Cabbage, is it s strong, offensive odor, resembling rotting meat. While humans do not like the smell, bee and fly pollinators are attracted to the foul odor.Plant Specifications
*above specification are indicative only. actual dimensions may vary by +-10%
| Common Name | Eastern skunk cabbage,meadow cabbage |
| Maximum Reachable Height | 2 to 3 feet |
| Flower Colour | Purple |
| Bloom Time | April |
| Difficulty Level | Easy to grow |
Planting and care
Keep soil moist and boggy.
Skunkcabbage care
Skunk cabbage also repels many mammals, so it can be useful if you have a problem with four-legged vegetable thieves. If squirrels are eating your corn or raccoons get into your tomatoes, the scent of skunk cabbage may be enough to keep them away, allowing you to harvest food without bite marks.
| Sunlight | Full Sun to Partial Shade |
| Watering | Medium |
| Soil | Well-drained soil |
| Temperature | -15 to +15 degrees C. |
| Fertilizer | Apply any organic fertilizer |
Skunkcabbage special feature
Stream or pond margins. Boggy areas. Water gardens.
Skunkcabbage uses
Ornamental Use:
- The plant is used for ornamental purpose
Medicinal Use:
- In the 1800 a drug called Dracontinium, made from skunk cabbage, was used to treat a variety of ailments
- The rhizomes of skunk cabbage have been used for a variety ailments, includingAntispasmodic,asthma,coughs,headaches