Orontium

Description:

The leaves are pointed and oval with a water repellent surface.The inflorescence is most notable for having an extremely small almost indistinguishable sheath surrounding the spadix. Very early in the flowering this green sheath withers away leaving only the spadix. The flowering occurs in the spring. Native Americans once ate the seeds and rhizome by drying them out and grinding them into a starchy substance.

Habitat:

This species is endemic to eastern North America and is found growing in ponds, streams, and shallow lakes. It prefers an acidic environment.

Notes:

National Botanic Garden of Belgium