Cous biscuitroot facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Cous biscuitroot |
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Selineae
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Lomatium cous
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| Lomatium cous (Wats.) Coult. & Rose
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Lomatium cous is a special plant often called cous biscuitroot. It's a type of perennial herb, which means it lives for more than two years. This plant belongs to the Apiaceae family, which also includes carrots and parsley!
The root of the cous biscuitroot is very important. It has been a valuable food source for many Native American tribes living in the southern plateau region of the Pacific Northwest. In 1806, the famous explorer Meriwether Lewis found a sample of this plant during his expedition.
Native American tribes have their own names for this plant. In the Sahaptin language, it is called x̣áwš. The Nez Perce language has two names: qáamsit for the fresh root and qáaws for the root once it has been peeled and dried.
Contents
What is Cous Biscuitroot?
Cous biscuitroot is a plant that grows from a root. This root is thick and starchy, a bit like a potato. It stores energy for the plant. People can eat this root, and it's full of nutrients.
Where Does it Grow?
This plant is native to the western parts of North America. You can find it growing in dry, open areas. It often grows in rocky soils or grasslands. It's well-adapted to these tough conditions.
Why is it Important?
The cous biscuitroot has been a vital food for centuries. It helped people survive harsh winters. It provided energy and important vitamins. It was also easy to store for a long time.
Native American Uses
Native American tribes like the Nez Perce and Sahaptin harvested these roots. They would dig them up in the spring or fall. The roots were often peeled and dried. This made them last longer. Sometimes, they were ground into flour. This flour could be used to make bread or biscuits. It was a staple food, meaning it was a main part of their diet.
A Historical Discovery
Meriwether Lewis was part of the Lewis and Clark Expedition. This expedition explored the western United States. When Lewis found the cous biscuitroot, he noted its importance. He saw how Native Americans used it for food. This showed the explorers how to survive in the new lands.
