Symplocarpus foetidus Seeds | Skunk Cabbage
LATIN NAME: Symplocarpus foetidus
COMMON NAME: Skunk Cabbage
Plant Profile
A distinctive member of its genus, Skunk Cabbage (Symplocarpus foetidus) is a perennial in the arum family. Skunk cabbage is strange, dark hood of spring marsh, and mottled spathes rise before broad leaves. Plant gives off fine, skunk-like smell that draws early flies, and it is a plant of open, sunny to partly shaded, wet, boggy ground. Put simply, this is a rewarding species for anyone willing to give it a suitable spot.
Science & Biotechnology
As part of the arum family, Symplocarpus foetidus contributes to research on plant classification and adaptation, while nurseries and gardeners continue to trial it for cultivation. Modern propagation practice has made this species straightforward to raise by ordinary good methods.
Uses & Benefits
Skunk Cabbage brings genuine presence to the garden and earns its keep across the growing season. Skunk cabbage is a fine, curious plant of marsh and bog garden. It is a fine, curious plant of open, sunny to partly shaded, wet, boggy garden. Keep young plants in wet, boggy ground through the first season, and the hoods will come in the years ahead. Once settled, it thrives on neglect more than on fussing.
Skunk cabbage is the first flower of spring, melting its way through snow with its own heat; its root had folk respiratory use but is calcium-oxalate-harsh, so it stays a wetland marvel.
Growing from Seed
Raising Skunk Cabbage from seed is straightforward. Sow thinly on the surface of a loose, well-drained seed compost, cover lightly, water in gently and keep the tray in a sunny spot with even moisture. Once the seedlings have made true leaves, pot them on individually and plant out when they are sturdy and conditions are right.
Our Take
Skunk Cabbage repays a little patience at sowing time with plenty of garden presence later.
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