Skunk Cabbage

Lysichiton americanus

• Hul’qumi’num Name: ts’a’kw’a’
• Description: Perennial semi-aquatic herb from a short, thick rhizome, growing up to 70 cm. Giant green leaves cradle a bright yellow, lantern-shaped inflorescence known as a spadix.
• Habitat: Swamps, wetlands, and moist forests.
• Pair-with: Western redcedar, slough sedge, salmonberry, red alder, cascara.
• Fun Fact: The root of skunk cabbage is used as an antispasmodic, and has been processed for food in times of famine. The unusual inflorescence emits a “skunky” odor to trick flies and other insects that are attracted to carrion into pollinating its diminutive flowers.