Dogbane facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Indian Hemp |
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| Apocynum cannabinum in flower | |
| Scientific classification | |
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Apocynum
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A. cannabinum
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| Binomial name | |
| Apocynum cannabinum |
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Indian Hemp (scientific name: Apocynum cannabinum) is a fascinating plant found across North America. It's also known by other cool names like Dogbane, Amy Root, Hemp Dogbane, Rheumatism Root, and Wild Cotton. This plant is special because it has been used for different things throughout history. It grows in many places and has some unique features.
Contents
What is Indian Hemp?
Indian Hemp is a type of flowering plant. It belongs to a plant family called Apocynaceae. This plant is known for its strong fibers. These fibers are found in its stems.
Where Does It Grow?
This plant is native to all parts of North America. You can find it in many different environments. It loves places that are a bit wet.
Preferred Habitats
Indian Hemp often grows in moist lowlands. It likes areas near stream edges. You can also spot it close to pond edges. It prefers sandy or gravelly soil.
What Does It Look Like?
Indian Hemp plants usually grow to be about 1 to 4 feet tall. That's roughly the height of a small child! It has green leaves and small flowers.
Flowers and Fruits
The plant blooms from June to August. Its flowers are usually small and greenish-white. After the flowers, the plant produces long, slender fruits. These fruits contain many seeds.
Why is it Called Indian Hemp?
The name "Indian Hemp" comes from its historical use. Native American people used the plant's strong fibers. They made many useful items from them.
Traditional Uses of Fibers
The fibers from the stems were very important. People used them to make rope. They also made twine and fishing nets. Sometimes, the fibers were woven into baskets. This shows how clever people were with natural resources.
Other Historical Uses
Beyond fibers, parts of the plant were used in traditional practices. For example, some parts were used to help with certain discomforts. It was also used to make a type of dye. This dye could color different materials.
Is Indian Hemp Safe?
It's important to know that Indian Hemp is a poisonous plant. It contains substances that can be harmful. This is why it's also called "Dogbane."
Safety First
Because it is poisonous, you should never eat any part of this plant. It's best to admire it from a distance. Always be careful around wild plants you don't know well. If you are unsure, do not touch or taste them.
Images for kids
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Apocynum cannabinum fruits and seeds
See also
In Spanish: Apocynum cannabinum para niños
