Geograph - photograph every grid square

Lysichiton americanus growing in marshy woodland between the stream and Newton St Cyres Footpath 1, probably an escape from the adjacent gardens at Sherwood House (see SX8596 : View in the gardens of Sherwood House). Variously known as Western, Yellow or Asian skunk cabbage, it is poisonous unless well cooked; "the plant is rich in calcium oxylate, this is toxic and if consumed makes the mouth and digestive tract feel as though hundreds of needles are being stuck into it" Link . It is native to the American Pacific Northwest, and was used by indigenous peoples for burns, sores and other injuries and to line baskets and wrap food Link . Bears eat it as a laxative after hibernation. I didn't try it. See also Link .