Apocynum cannabinum – “Hemp Dogbane”

Also Known As: Indian Hemp, Dogbane, Prairie Dogbane, Rheumatism Root, Amy Root, Wild Cotton
Family: Dogbane (Apocynaceae)
Bloom Period: Jun-Aug
Form: Perennial herb
Habitat: Moist places such as seeps and streams
Leaves: Elliptic to lanceolate; often in whorls, alternate when single, opposite when in pairs
Translation: “Apocynum” is Greek for “away from dog,” as in “keep away from dog,” I presume, since it is a well-known canine poison; “cannabinum” means “like hemp,” which refers to its utility as a fiber plant. (It is not psychoactive.)
Notes: In the fall, when plant dries out and the toxic compounds retreat to the roots, the stems can be harvested and the bark processed into fibers. The resulting product, which is comparable to flax, is strong, does not shrink and stays durable when wet. Clothes, cordage, and even paper can be manufactured from it. When still fresh, the plant exudes a latex that has potential as a source for rubber. Since the plant takes up lead in the soil, it could have a role in phytoremediation (using plants to clean up polluted sites). Modern herbalists utilize the plant for its medicinal properties, but with great care due to its poisonous compounds.
Native American Uses: The Isleta mixed the stem’s latex with clay and used it as a chewing gum. Western Keres women who were nursing applied a poultice of the leaves to their breasts and drank an infusion of the leaves as a galactagogue (to encourage milk flow). The Luiseño used the fibers to make cloth for aprons and storage sacks, twine for toting nets, and strung hunting bows with it. The Kayenta used is as a ceremonial emetic (vomit inducer).
Animal Associations: Keep dogs away!