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Growing Skunk Cabbage
Growing the Skunk Cabbage or Lysichiton is a pretty straightforward affair. It isn't tricky as long as you get the water depth right.
Grow this plant in the full sun and deep rich soil. The key to success is to not allow standing water to sit over its roots/crown but to keep it constantly damp and well fed. If you do this, you'll see a small spring bloom (that stinks - why do you think they call it "skunk" cabbage?) but then You'll see an amazing set of leaves develop that can reach 4 feet tall. Remember, lots of water but no standing water. Great soil. Planted in an area that doesn't get late frosts.
By seed or division in early spring
There are two species commonly sold in garden shops. L. americanum a western North American native, starts the year off with early spring blooms of yellow (stinky!) but then gives us a massive leaf display after the blooms are finished. L. camtschatcense is an Asian species of Skunk Cabbage (pictured in early spring) but it has white flowers and smaller leaves. Click here to ask about skunk cabbage
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