Polecatweed
Symplocarpus foetidus
Last reviewed: June 2026
Polecatweed is toxic to dogs and cats.
Listed as toxic by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (last reviewed 2026-05-21). If your pet has been exposed, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435and your veterinarian's emergency line.
Pollinator Patch flags toxic plants so you can choose a pet-safe native alternative for your yard.
Light
part shade
Water
high
Size
12"–24" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
Mar, Apr, May
Native to
CT, DE, IA, IL and 20 more states
Pollinators
flies, beetles
Polecatweed is a unique native wetland plant that produces distinctive hooded flowers in early spring before large cabbage-like leaves emerge. It requires consistently moist to wet soil conditions and thrives in shaded areas near water features or low-lying spots. The plant gets its name from the strong odor it releases when bruised or damaged.
In an HOA neighborhood
Polecatweed takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Strong unpleasant odor when disturbed
- Very informal wetland appearance
- Requires swampy conditions unsuitable for typical landscaping
Wildlife value
This plant attracts flies and beetles with its early spring blooms, providing nectar when few other flowers are available. The unusual flowering strategy makes it an important early-season pollinator resource.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Pollinator Patch flags toxic plants like Polecatweed and shows pet-safe natives for your ecoregion instead.