Skunk Cabbage – 4/16/19

Observer: Paul Lauenstein

Observation Date: 4/16/19

Observation Time: 1:50 p.m.

Observation Location: Moose Hill Audubon Wildlife Sanctuary

Common Name: Skunk Cabbage

Scientific Name: Symplocarpus foetidus

Comments: Skunk cabbages are among the first plants to emerge in early spring. They can maintain an internal temperature significantly warmer than the surrounding air – as much as 15-35 degrees warmer – by consuming carbohydrates stored in their fleshy rhizomes. The warmth they generate helps in attracting cold-blooded, early-emerging pollinating insects in early spring when temperatures are typically quite chilly.

More Information: National Park Service