American Skunk Cabbage
Invasive Species Information

What is American skunk cabbage - (Lysichiton americanus)?

Habitat: Terrestrial. Needs wet areas.
Distribution in Ireland: Sparse distribution but locally abundant in some places.

Status: Established
Family name: Araceae.

Reproduction: Male and female (sometimes hermaphrodite) flowers can occur within the same distinctive inflorescence which consists of a spathe and spadix. Pollination is carried out by beetles in North America.

Native to North America it was introduced to Ireland by gardeners and now resides in boggy acid soils in wet woodlands, streamsides and pond margins. American skunk cabbage is known for its strong skunk-like smell.