SCL Posted April 26, 2015 Share Posted April 26, 2015 <p>While walking in and around local wetlands today (Chicago area), I came across patches of the plants shown below...leaves were 8-12 inches long and about half as wide. They appeared to be wild, based on how they were scattered, some in rushes, some at slightly higher elevations in heavily wooded areas - but getting plenty of sun before the tree leaves come out. No flowers, at least at this time. Thanks in advance.<br> Steve</p><div></div> Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Edwin Barkdoll Posted April 26, 2015 Share Posted April 26, 2015 <p>Looks like early skunk cabbage?</p> Test Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Edwin Barkdoll Posted April 26, 2015 Share Posted April 26, 2015 <p>Here are some from Acadia National Park</p><div></div> Test Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
SCL Posted April 26, 2015 Author Share Posted April 26, 2015 <p>Thanks Edwin - Shapes & variegation look pretty similar, and I've heard that it grown in the area.</p> Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Edwin Barkdoll Posted April 26, 2015 Share Posted April 26, 2015 <p>Also has a characteristic 'skunky' odor when the leaves are crushed.</p> Test Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
funkag Posted April 26, 2015 Share Posted April 26, 2015 <p>Yep - eastern skunk cabbage. Check out the location in late February / early March and you'll see it "blooming" with one of the ugliest flowers ever. Here's one:</p><div></div> Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
funkag Posted April 26, 2015 Share Posted April 26, 2015 <p>Let's try that picture again...</p> <p>Also, there is an interested video on the skunk cabbage's ability to create heat in the winter time as it pushes its way up through the frozen soil. Link here: <div></div> Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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