Skunk Cabbage is one of the first plants to flower in my region (Southwestern Ontario). On a walk today I discovered one growing under the leaves on a damp sandy bank. This plant starts appearing after the snow melts, uncovering its unique bulbous exterior. Why is this plant called skunk cabbage, you might be asking? This plant earns its name from the pungent skunky aroma it emits when the leaves are crushed. Insects are also attracted to the odor, which in turn pollenates the plant. Another interesting fact about this plant is its ability to generate its own heat to melt through the snow. Here is an image of the one I found today; spring is coming! I also saw my first Chipmunk of the year.
Skunk Cabbage
