Symplocarpus

Description

Symplocarpus is a genus of flowering plants that belongs to the Araceae family. It is also known as skunk cabbage, due to its unpleasant odor that resembles that of a skunk. Symplocarpus thrives in wet and boggy soil and is commonly found in North America and eastern Asia. It is a perennial plant that can grow up to 1.5 meters tall.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Symplocarpus has large, green leaves that can grow up to 1 meter long and 50 cm wide. The leaves are broad and heart-shaped, with a smooth or slightly wrinkled texture. The flowers are small and clustered together on a fleshy stalk that emerges from the center of the plant. The flowers are purple-brown in color and have a unique structure that is adapted for pollination by flies and beetles.

Care Guide

Symplocarpus requires moist soil and should be planted in a location that receives partial shade. It can be grown in containers or in the ground, as long as the soil is kept consistently moist. The plant does not require fertilization and can be propagated by dividing the rhizomes in the spring or fall. Hardiness zones for Symplocarpus are 4-7.

Common Pests & Diseases

Symplocarpus is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. It is also important to keep an eye out for slugs and snails, which may feed on the leaves and damage the plant.

Habitat

Symplocarpus is native to North America and eastern Asia, and is commonly found in wetlands, swamps, and boggy areas. It is an important food source for bears and other wildlife, who feed on the plant’s roots and leaves.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Symplocarpus be grown in a container?
A: Yes, Symplocarpus can be grown in a container as long as the soil is kept consistently moist.

Q: What is the best time to divide Symplocarpus?
A: Symplocarpus can be divided in the spring or fall.

Q: Is Symplocarpus a good plant for wetlands restoration?
A: Yes, Symplocarpus is a great plant for wetlands restoration projects due to its ability to thrive in wet and boggy soil.

Q: Why is Symplocarpus called skunk cabbage?
A: Symplocarpus is called skunk cabbage due to its unpleasant odor that resembles that of a skunk.

Related Plants

• Arisaema
• Calla
• Colocasia
• Philodendron
• Zantedeschia

References

• Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Symplocarpus foetidus. Retrieved from http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=p150
• USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service. (n.d.). Symplocarpus foetidus. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=SYFO
• Kew Royal Botanic Gardens. (n.d.). Symplocarpus foetidus. Retrieved from http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:300184-2