Lysichiton camtschatcensis aka Asian Skunk Cabbage

Lysichiton camtschatcensis is a perennial in the arum family, Araceae. Gardeners call it Asian or Kamchatka skunk cabbage. Its native range runs from Russia's Far East to central Japan. It grows in a temperate climate and is not native to Britain or Ireland. In the wild, it lives in bogs and other wet places. It also grows beside ponds and lakes.

The plant forms an upright clump and loses its leaves each year. Garden plants reach about 1.6–3.3 feet [0.5–1 metre] tall. Clumps spread about 0.3–1.6 feet [0.1–0.5 metres] across. They spread slowly and may take five to ten years to mature. Broad, oval leaves emerge after the flowers. These leaves can reach 3 feet [0.9 metres] long. Their large size gives the plant a strong presence near water.

The flowers appear in early spring, before the large leaves unfold. Each bloom has a white spathe around a yellow to green spadix. The spathe gives the bloom its showy, arum-like shape. Flowers stand about 1 foot [0.3 metres] tall and have a scent. Missouri Botanical Garden lists April as the flowering month. Chicago Botanic Garden records bloom periods from March through June. The white blooms provide spring interest along pond and stream edges.

Grow this plant in fertile soil rich in humus. RHS lists loam and accepts acid, neutral, or alkaline soil. The roots need moist to wet ground with poor drainage. Full sun and partial shade both suit it. Missouri Botanical Garden also reports tolerance of deep shade. It suits bog gardens, water gardens, and rain gardens. Its spreading clumps can serve as ground cover in wet sites. RHS rates it H7 for cold hardiness. Published US hardiness ranges differ, from zones 5–7 to 5–9.

Care needs are low, and the plant needs no pruning. Serious pest and disease problems are rare, though slugs chew the leaves. Sow seed in wet soil in spring or summer. Take offsets in summer to make new plants. The plant is harmful to people and pets if eaten. It can also irritate skin and eyes. Wear gloves when handling it. PFAF lists young shoots as food only after thorough cooking. It gives the plant a low food rating and reports no known medicinal uses.