‘Skunk cabbage’ thrives in boggy areas

Lysichiton americanus is part of the arum family and one of only two within its genus. Native to parts of northwestern America, this herbaceous perennial thrives in boggy areas, growing in marshes, swamps and in forested wetlands.

This beauty is the perfect plant to brighten pond edges. In early spring you can see it at Dunedin Botanic Garden emerging beneath the top bridge in the Rhododendron Dell, east of the Cherry Walk.

This visually outstanding plant forms a basal rosette of large glossy leaves growing up to 1.5m in length. The spadix, which is covered in small greenish-yellow flowers in the right conditions, can also reach over 1m in height and is surrounded by a bright vibrant yellow spathe.

Each spadix is usually made up of both male and female flowers, with some bisexual flowers. The flowers are protogynous, meaning the female reproductive organs come into maturity before the male.

The unfortunate, but more familiar, common name "skunk cabbage" refers to its musty smell; the reason is so the plant can attract pollinators such as flies and beetles.

Adult plants will begin to set seed after about five years. You can propagate Lysichiton americanus by division or from its berry-like fruit, however these will require stratification. This is a technique to artificially create cool winter conditions so once sown the seed thinks it is spring. Alternatively, if left alone, this slow-spreading plant propagates itself by fallen seed from the wilting spadix.

Garden Life is produced by Dunedin Botanic Garden. For further information contact Stephanie Sinton