American Skunk Cabbage
Lysichiton americanus
Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
36 inches
Width
36 inches
Light
Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Consistently moist
Humidity
High
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
North America
Toxicity
Toxic if ingested
The Story
Plant Bio
Lysichiton americanus, commonly known as the American Skunk Cabbage, is a perennial aquatic plant characterized by large, glossy green leaves and distinctive yellow spathe flowers that emerge in early spring. This species is notable for its strong, unpleasant odor which attracts pollinators and its ability to thrive in wetland environments, making it an important plant for water filtration and habitat restoration.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Choose a shady, wet location with rich soil.
- Tuck seeds or divisions into moist soil in early spring.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity.
- Ensure soil remains consistently moist during growth.
- Transplant young plants in early spring after frost risk.
- Mulch around plants to retain moisture.
Pro Tip
Plant in consistently moist, shaded areas for best growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
- Mulch to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds
- Prune dead leaves in late winter
Don't
- Avoid dry or overly sunny locations ❌
- Don't let soil dry out completely
- Avoid heavy fertilization which can promote disease
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
American Skunk Cabbage questions
What zones can American Skunk Cabbage grow in?
American Skunk Cabbage is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is American Skunk Cabbage deer resistant?
Yes — American Skunk Cabbage is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does American Skunk Cabbage bloom?
American Skunk Cabbage typically blooms in early spring through late spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does American Skunk Cabbage need full sun?
American Skunk Cabbage does best in part shade.
Keep exploring
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Grow American Skunk Cabbage with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
