This is rare in the Ottawa district but there are a few locations where the species is known to grow. Here you can see seeds next to the plant. Also, the brown tip on one indicates cold damage. Almost all the plants suffered from this, some more than others, meaning that many were shrivelled and brown. We had some very cold temperatures a short while ago, and no doubt that did the damage. They are often seen growing up through snow, but generally when the temperatures have moderated a bit. The stinky smell of the plant, especially the flower, is what attracts the polliinators particular to this plant.

Also known as Eastern Skunk Cabbage or Swamp Cabbage. The flower is inside the spathe and the leaves, which are huge, won't emerge until summer.