Yellow skunk cabbage, Yellow arum
Lysichiton americanus
Family: Araceae
What it is like
A lily like plant. The plant grows 0.9-1.2 m high and spreads 1.2-1.5 m wide. The leaves are large and can be 1.2 m long. The leaves are paddle shaped. The spathe of the flower is bright yellow. They have an unpleasant smell. They can be 15-20 cm tall.
There are 2 Lysichiton species. They grow in temperate places.
Where it is found
It is a temperate plant. It grows by the waterside. It tolerates full sun or part shade. It requires permanently damp soil. It suits hardiness zones 6-10. Hobart Botanical Gardens.
Countries/locations it is found in
Australia, Britain, Canada, Europe, North America (country/location of origin), Tasmania, USA
How it is used for food
The leaf stalks and the flower stalks are roasted and eaten. The leaves have been dried and powdered and used as a thickening agent. Only young leaves should be used. The rhizome is also eaten. They are washed then boiled or steamed. Caution: It contains calcium oxalate crystals. Therefore the plants are only eaten in small amounts.
Edible parts
Leaves, root, rhizomes, buds
How it is grown
Plants are grown from seed. They can also be grown from offsets.
It is a slow growing plant.