Skunk cabbage
Astelia solandrifam. Liliaceae
Educational content — not medical, botanical, or professional advice. Always consult a qualified clinician before using any herbal preparation — especially during pregnancy, breastfeeding, while on medication, or for children. How we source & review →
Pl. FB60 — Astelia solandri
Astelia solandriAstelia solandriAstelia solandriAstelia solandriAstelia solandriAstelia solandriAstelia solandriAstelia solandriAstelia solandriAstelia solandriAstelia solandriAstelia solandriAstelia solandriAstelia solandri
IOverview
Overview
Astelia solandri, commonly known as New Zealand flax, is a perennial plant native to the North and South Islands of New Zealand. It thrives in moist environments with light to partial sun exposure and can grow up to 2 meters tall. This plant is notable for its edible parts, which include both fruit and stem. Native to New Zealand's diverse landscapes, Astelia solandri adds ornamental value to gardens while providing a source of sustenance. Its distinctive feature includes long, narrow leaves that form dense clumps, creating an attractive ground cover or border in the garden.
Quick answers
What is Skunk cabbage?
Astelia solandri, commonly known as New Zealand flax, is a perennial plant native to the North and South Islands of New Zealand. It thrives in moist environments with light to partial sun exposure and can grow up to 2 meters tall. This plant is notable for its edible parts, which include both fruit and stem.
What is Skunk cabbage used for?
Traditionally used for immune support, digestion. Each claim is evidence-rated — see Section II for full citations.
Compare with:Alstroemeria revoluta→Lilium distichum→Lilium leichtlinii maximowiczii→all comparisons →
Best for
Top 2 evidence-ranked uses of Skunk cabbage
Clinicaluses · safety · chemistry · dosagemedicinal profile
IIBenefits & evidence
2 claims · 0 sources
Benefits & evidence
2 claims · 0 sources- Astelia solandri is traditionally used in New Zealand for its immune-supporting properties, often prepared as a tea to help the body resist common illnesses.
The specific compounds responsible for Astelia solandri's immune support are not fully characterised but may include antioxidants and other bioactive molecules that enhance immune function.
- Astelia solandri has been traditionally used in New Zealand Māori medicine for digestive issues, often prepared as a decoction to soothe the stomach and aid digestion.
The mechanism by which Astelia solandri supports digestion is not fully characterised but may involve compounds that interact with gut motility or reduce inflammation.
IV·bMixology suggestions
1 draft
Mixology suggestions
1 draftEditorial drafts. These pairings are AI-suggested from traditional herbal lore. Always verify with a qualified herbalist before brewing.
Moisture Balance
skintincture
Used traditionally for skin conditions.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Astelia solandri thrives in partial sun to full sun and requires moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). This perennial plant grows up to 2 meters tall and is hardy in temperate regions. For propagation, division of the clumps or seed sowing are effective methods. Harvest edible parts such as fruit and stem when ripe for use.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Life cycle
Perennial
Mature size
2.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Skunk cabbage for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple and forgiving plant like skunk cabbage for your first gardening experience.
- 1
What you'll need
Skunk cabbage plants, potting mix suitable for moisture-loving plants, containers or garden beds, water-soluble fertilizer.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant skunk cabbage in early spring when the soil is moist and warm enough.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure your soil is well-draining but moisture-retentive. For containers, use a mix of light sand, medium soil, and clay for good drainage and water retention.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant skunk cabbage from nursery pots directly into the garden if possible, ensuring they are not root-bound.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist. Avoid overwatering which can lead to root rot.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide partial shade and water consistently. Fertilize lightly every few months with a balanced fertilizer.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune dead foliage in late winter to maintain the plant's health and appearance.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in full sun, using heavy clay soil without amendment, neglecting regular fertilization.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:FruitStem
Edible uses: Oil
Other uses:oil
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
2 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
2 native · 0 introducedDistribution across0 continents· 2 native
Broader regions
native:New Zealand North, New Zealand South
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Liliaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Liliaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Health goals
Compare with similar plants
XII
About this entry
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- Citation
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