Western Skunk Cabbage
Lysichiton americanus
Also known as Yellow Skunk-cabbage, American Skunk-cabbage, Swamp Lantern
Climate Match for your location
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A striking wetland perennial with large, paddle-shaped leaves and a distinctive yellow spathe surrounding a dark spadix that appears in early spring. It thrives in wet, marshy conditions and is native to the Pacific Northwest.
Why grow it
Western skunk cabbage produces early spring interest when few other wetland plants are flowering, making it valuable for phenological diversity in bog gardens. Compared to other native wetland perennials, it tolerates consistently saturated or seasonally flooded conditions with minimal maintenance once established. The large foliage provides visual mass and seasonal screening in otherwise sparse early-spring landscapes.
Watch out for
This plant spreads readily by seed in suitable conditions and may self-sow more vigorously than intended in contained water features. The distinctive odor, while attractive to pollinators, can be noticeable at close range during bloom. Establishment can be slow in the first season, so patience is needed before plants reach their ornamental potential.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Araceae
Native to the United States
Native Range
Pacific Northwest (Oregon, Washington, British Columbia)
Native to: Alaska, California, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, Washington
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Season of Interest
Herb
Soft non-woody plants of the field layer.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
A striking wetland perennial with large, paddle-shaped leaves and a distinctive yellow spathe surrounding a dark spadix that appears in early spring. It thrives in wet, marshy conditions and is native to the Pacific Northwest.
Climate Match for your location
See how well Western Skunk Cabbage grows in your area.
Enter your ZIP code and we'll show you how this plant fits your local climate.
Why grow it
Western skunk cabbage produces early spring interest when few other wetland plants are flowering, making it valuable for phenological diversity in bog gardens. Compared to other native wetland perennials, it tolerates consistently saturated or seasonally flooded conditions with minimal maintenance once established. The large foliage provides visual mass and seasonal screening in otherwise sparse early-spring landscapes.
Watch out for
This plant spreads readily by seed in suitable conditions and may self-sow more vigorously than intended in contained water features. The distinctive odor, while attractive to pollinators, can be noticeable at close range during bloom. Establishment can be slow in the first season, so patience is needed before plants reach their ornamental potential.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Araceae
Native to the United States
Native Range
Pacific Northwest (Oregon, Washington, British Columbia)
Native to: Alaska, California, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, Washington
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Season of Interest
Herb
Soft non-woody plants of the field layer.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
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