One of the most attractive flowers now growing beside some lakes and ponds in damp ground is the American Skunk cabbage (Lysichiton americanus)   Its yellow flowers and spathes are produced in spring and resemble a large wild Arum and has been popular as an ornamental plant with gardeners.  However it is now banned from sale as it is classified as an invasive plant because its leaves can grow up to a metre and a half so suppressing native plants and it easily sets seed which can readily disperse in water.  A recommended alternative is the white Lysichiton camtschatcensis which looks similar (see the extra) but has scentless flowers and white spathes.   In spite of the strong wind it was sufficiently sheltered for reflections of the trees in the water.