Plants in genus lysichiton
Lysichiton americanus
Lysichiton americanus, commonly known as the skunk cabbage, is a native plant of the Pacific Northwest that thrives in bogs and swamps. It is recognized for its glossy green foliage and giant yellow blooms that emit a distinctive skunk-like odor, attracting pollinators like flies and beetles. This plant has the largest leaves of any native species in its region and has been used traditionally by indigenous peoples for medicinal and culinary purposes.
Lysichiton camtschatcensis
Lysichiton camtschatcensis, also known as the Asian skunk cabbage, is a robust herbaceous perennial native to Northern Russia and Japan. It thrives in swamps, wet woods, and along streams, making it an excellent choice for marginal aquatic gardens. The plant features strongly veined, glossy leaves that can reach up to 3 feet tall, and a white spathe up to 40 cm long that appears in early spring. Its foliage emerges in mid-February and goes dormant in summer heat. Lysichiton camtschatcensis is recognized with the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit for its ornamental value. The plant's variable scent, ranging from unpleasant to sweet, adds an intriguing element to its presence in the garden. Its ability to form slowly stoloniferous patches makes it a unique and attractive choice for gardeners looking to create a lush, tropical look in shaded, soggy sites.