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Skunk Cabbage
Skunk Cabbage botanical plate
Field guide plate · click to zoom

Skunk Cabbage

Symplocarpus foetidus

Honeybees visit skunk cabbage primarily for its early-season pollen, which supports brood rearing when few other sources are available, though nectar rewards are minimal. Peak bloom occurs from February to April, providing one of the first foraging opportunities in wetlands. This native perennial requires consistently wet, shady conditions and is not typically planted but valued in natural swampy habitats for early bee support.

Nectarlow
Pollenmedium
BloomFebruary–April
Zones4-7
TypePerennial
Sunshade
NativeEastern North America
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