THE SKUNK CABBAGE
(Symplocarpus foetidus)
The Skunk Cabbage, a member of the Arum family of plants, is "once seen, never forgotten". It emerges/blooms late in winter and generates enough heat to melt the surface snow/ice cover.
The photographs were taken at a "patch" alongside Wilket creek, a short walk south from Edwards Gardens in Toronto. It can be found nearby the first path leading off to the west. On the south side of this path is a colony of 'Wild Sarsaparilla'.
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(Photos © W. Banner)
A montage: In the beginning, Skunk Cabbages "burning through the snow". Wilket Creek, April, 2001
"The Patch" Wilket Creek, April, 2001. At least seven "sentinels" can be spotted in the photo.
Skunk Cabbage spathe, enclosing the spadix with flowers, in its frozen enclave. Early April, 2001. Another very apt name for this plant is "Swamp Lantern"
Closeup of the spathe with its spadix
The spathe and supporting stalk
Leaves beginning to show.
Closeup of emerging leaves.
Developing leaves
Maturing leaves, early May
A duplicate page presenting all the photographs together.
Naturepark The "cousin" west coast Skunk Cabbage (Lysichiton americanum).