Apocynum cannabinum

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Apocynum cannabinum in flower
Plant Info
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Scientific classification
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Binomial name
Apocynum cannabinum L.
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Apocynum cannabinum (Dogbane, Amy Root, or Indian hemp) is a perennial herbaceous plant that grows throughout much of North America, in the southern half of Canada and throughout the United States. It grows up to 2 meters tall. It prefers moist places. It is a poisonous plant; the name means "poisonous to dogs". All parts of the plant are poisonous and can cause cardiac arrest if ingested.

The stems are reddish and contain a milky latex capable of causing skin blisters. The leaves are opposite, simple broad lanceolate, 7-15 cm long and 3-5 cm broad, entire, and smooth on top with white hairs on the underside. The flowers are produced in mid summer, with large sepals, and a five-lobed white corolla.

It grows in open wooded areas, ditches, and hillsides; in gardens it can be invasive, growing from spreading roots.

Uses

Indian hemp was used as a source of fiber by Native Americans, to make hunting nets, fishing lines, clothing, and twine. It was also used in herbal medicine to treat syphilis, rheumatism, intestinal worms, fever, asthma, and dysentery. Although the toxins from the plant can cause nausea and catharsis, it has also been used for slowing the pulse.

References

• Treatment from the Jepson Manual
• ITIS 30157