Standard English Name(s): Skunk Cabbage
Local English Name(s):
Scientific Name(s): Lysichiton americanum Hult. & St. John
Upriver Halkomelem Name(s):
Downriver Halkomelem Name(s): c'aqwe'
Island Halkomelem Name(s): c'aqwa'

Description, Habitat, Ecology, & Distribution:
     This plant of swamps, bogs and other moist sites is so-named because of the strong odour produced by the flowers. These flowers are tiny and borne on a vertical stalk that is hooded by a distinctive bright yellow bract (modified leaf).

Upriver Halkomelem Cultural Role(s):
     The roots were used for a spring tonic. The leaf was put on the head as a medicine for baldness. The leaves were also used for "Indian waxed paper."

Downriver Halkomelem Cultural Role(s):
Island Halkomelem Cultural Role(s):
     Skunk cabbage leaves were used as an undermat for drying berries.

CAUTION: This species may be harmful. It produces cells that contain bundles of microscopic, needle-shaped crystals (raphides) of calcium oxalate, which penetrate various human tissues if consumed. This can produce extreme burning and inflammation and, in severe cases, choking and possibly death.