Skunk cabbage’s flower, a spadix, is one of the earliest to be seen in Spring, seen here inside the foremost bud. Actually the plant can be seen in mid-winter as it is thermogenic and produces heat which helps clear away the snow around it. Native Americans used it to treat a few maladies such as epilepsy and various bodily swellings. It’s an Araceae which is related to the Philodendron houseplant. Aside from having a bad smell it is also toxic and even a small amount can be seriously harmful.
Along this same path in Quabbin Park I once came across a skunk cabbage plant acting as a maple nursery.
Stephen Gingold Nature Photography Blog 