Maryland’s first flower of the year is the Eastern Skunk Cabbage, and it’s blooming in the wetlands now. This native plant evolved during the Cretaceous period and has remained essentially unchanged since that time, showing that its spectacular adaptations have made it an evolutionary success. It produces heat to attract the few pollinators emerging in winter’s frigid temperatures. It transforms from a female flower to a male flower to promote cross-fertilization, the driving force in natural selection. Eastern Skunk Cabbage exploits a niche that no other plant does. It is an enigmatic guardian of swamp and wetland edges, some of our most critical habitats especially in the era of climate change.
Join Siobhan Percey, Master Naturalist and skunk cabbage expert, for this two-part program. Friday night will feature an educational presentation on Zoom from 7 to 8 pm. For the Saturday field portion, we’ll walk the campus of Anne Arundel Community College in Arnold, MD, from 11 to 12:30 pm to visit this fascinating plant.
The walk is less than a half mile each way, about 15 minutes in each direction. The path is level, with a slope down and up a hill and crossing over a stable wooden bridge missing one or two half-slats, easy to avoid by watching your step. It will be wet and mucky, so don’t forget your waterproof/repellent boots. This walk requires sure-footedness. Bring hiking poles if you need extra support.
Siobhan, like most of the people who lead NHSM field trips, is a volunteer. Your money directly supports the programs, the nature collections, and the building that make this kind of nature education possible. Donate or become a member of the Natural History Society of Maryland by visiting https://marylandnature.org/support-maryland-nature/.
Difficulty: Easy to moderate (low-intensity hiking)
Remember to
- Dress according to the weather. Layers of clothing work best. Include a hat for sun protection or warmth, depending on the season.
- Wear sturdy waterproof or water-resistant boots with non-slip soles that can safely handle slippery surfaces.
- Bring water, snacks, sunblock, bug spray, and your camera with accessories.
- Bring binoculars and a hand lens or loupe. Both are available to borrow.
- Bring your guidebooks.
- No pets, please.
The meeting location can be found in your registration confirmation email when payment is complete.
NEW – Payment and Cancellation Policy: Payment is due online at the time of registration. Cancellations made seven or more days in advance of the event will receive a refund minus a 5% processing fee. Cancellations made within seven days of the event will not receive a refund. NHSM retains the right to update or change these requirements at any time.
For questions, please email Jayne at JAsh@marylandnature.org.
