Western Skunk Cabbage (Lysichiton Americanus) is a perennial herb in the Araceae family with easy care difficulty. It requires high watering and partial shade or full shade light in USDA hardiness zones 5-9. This plant is toxic to cats and dogs — keep it out of reach of pets.

Lysichiton americanus is a large, perennial herbaceous plant known for its distinctive yellow spathe and skunky odor, native to the Pacific Northwest of North America.

Western Skunk Cabbage

Western Skunk Cabbage

Lysichiton Americanus

Lysichiton americanus is a large, perennial herbaceous plant known for its distinctive yellow spathe and skunky odor, native to the Pacific Northwest of North America.

Quick Facts

Type
herb
Lifecycle
perennial
Care Difficulty
Easy
Water Needs
High
Light
Partial Shade, Full Shade
Hardiness Zones
5-9

Safety

⚠️
Not Pet Safe
⚠️
Not Child Safe
☠️
Toxic

Growing Conditions

Soil Types:loamy, peaty, clay
Indoor:No
Outdoor:Yes
Garden Use:ornamental, groundcover in wet areas, early spring interest

Care Calendar

Monthly care tasks for Western Skunk Cabbage

Jan
Prune
Feb
Fertilize
Mar
Repot
Apr
Water+
May
...
Jun
...
Jul
...
Aug
...
Sep
...
Oct
...
Nov
...
Dec
...

Expert Care Tips

Pro tips from botanists and plant experts

Watering Tip

Check soil moisture by inserting your finger 1 inch deep. Water only when the top layer feels dry to prevent overwatering.

Humidity Trick

Group plants together to create...

Growth Hack

Rotate your plant every...

Photo Gallery10+ photos

Western Skunk Cabbage
Western Skunk Cabbage detail

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Taxonomy

Family:Araceae
Genus:Lysichiton