Throughout the drive we encountered these giant yellow flowers along the roadside in Alberta, British Columbia, and Alaska. We speculated that they were some kind of water lily, however they are know as Skunk Cabbage (Lysichiton americanus). They grow naturally in swamps and wet areas of the Pacific Northwest. It's name is derived from the "skunky" odor it emits. It is food for many animals including Bears. The bears dig at the plant eating it's root which is a laxative to relieve their bound up intestines after several months of hibernation. Essentially it's a natural Fiber One bar for the bear!
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