
Polecatweed
Symplocarpus foetidus
Skunk cabbage is a fascinating native wetland perennial prized for its dramatic, hood-like spathe that emerges in late winter, even through snow. It thrives in boggy, consistently wet soils with partial to full shade and is best planted near ponds, streams, or rain gardens. Once established it needs little care beyond ensuring the soil stays perpetually moist.
Toxicity Warning
Known to be toxic to dogs, cats, horses, humans.
Care Level
Moderate
Sun
Partial Shade
Water
Moderate
Growth Rate
Moderate
Mature Height
12″ – 48″
Soil
peat
Life Cycle
Perennial
Spacing
36″
Flowers
purple
Watering Schedule
Every 3-5 Days • Keep Soil Consistently Moist To Wet; Does Not Tolerate Drying Out
Soil pH
4 – 7
Temperature
50° – 90°F
Mature Spread
up to 24″
Root Depth
Shallow
Foliage
Coarse
Propagation: Division
Native to
Attracts
Sources
Data: trefle, aspca
Image: trefle.io — Taken Apr 30, 2022 by Perron Jérôme (cc-by-sa)
No nurseries currently have this species in stock.