Eastern Skunk Cabbage is one of the first plants to emerge in spring, melting its way through frozen ground as early as February through thermogenesis. Its mottled purple-green spathe generates heat up to 70°F above ambient temperature, attracting early flies and bees as pollinators. The fetid smell attracts carrion insects and provides an important early pollen source.
Best time to see a Eastern Skunk Cabbage
The best time to see a Eastern Skunk Cabbage is March–April, when about 61% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 70,533 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
Not certain it is a Eastern Skunk Cabbage? What plant is this? walks through what to check first and the lookalikes that catch people out.
Recent Eastern Skunk Cabbage sightings near you
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