A Welcome Sign
Today, I bring you Skunk Cabbage, Symplocarpus foetidus, one of my favorite spring plants. I love its hardy nature– poking up even through the cold ground in its eagerness to welcome spring. Its hooded spathe and hidden spadix are gorgeous, if perhaps overlooked or underappreciated. Its roots are also absolutely incredible: strong, deep, and grounded. And its unfurling green leaves, bright in sunlit wet woodlands, are a reminder to tap our own inner strength, push through the mud of adversity, and shine forth.
Drawn In 
I always rejoice at the first skunk cabbages sending up their deep burgundy spathes–a true sign of spring! Lovely painting.
I’m grateful to have them close to home. Glad you enjoy them too! They are always a welcome sign.
Sorry to miss the upcoming classes
Sorry to miss you! I’m on my way to BBG now. Hope all is well!
You’ve presented the deep purple spathe with as much interest as the fresh green parts – great color combination and textures.
Skunk Cabbage
Jean! everything about your post sings “Spring!” And we can all sing along with you! Thanks so much for sharing this welcome seasonal change.
What a lovely tribute! When I was a kid in NJ, plants we called “skunk cabbage” grew along the muddy banks of a creek nearby. The leaves were huge – easily 3′ or more – and we used them as fans, holding them over the head of the person being fanned.
Lessons in strength from a Skunk cabbage, I love it! I think we’ve talked about the Western version – the bright yellow Swamp lanterns. I love those leaves, which I think are very similar in both species, except the Western plant has all green leaves and maybe there’s a little bit of purple on the Eastern plant’s leaves? I am ignorant about the roots so thank you for that. The quote you paired with the drawing is a good one, too. 🙂