Skunk Cabbage Lives up to its Name

Visit the "Nature Nook" each Monday to learn a little something about a plant, animal, insect or woodland creature that you might come across as you are out and about this summer.

This week, we help you to get up close and personal with Skunk Cabbage.

Skunk Cabbage (Symplocarpus foetidus) is one of the first signs of spring. It grows in wet areas such as wetlands or swamps. It is one of the earliest plants to bloom, even as snow and ice cover the landscape. And, believe it or not, it is prevalent throughout our region.

Flowers are the first to emerge, followed by large green leaves which emit a pungent odor when torn or broken, thus the plant's rather colorful name.

According to Wikipedia, "While not considered edible raw, because the roots are toxic and the leaves can burn the mouth, the leaves may be dried and used in soups and stews.^"

Interesting tidbit, although I'm not sure you'd want to try it.