Indianhemp

(Apocynum cannabinum)

Indianhemp (Apocynum cannabinum)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Apocynum cannabinum, commonly known as Indianhemp, is a deciduous perennial herb native to a variety of habitats including open woodlands, prairies, and riparian zones across Subarctic America to northern Mexico. It can reach up to 2 meters (6 feet 7 inches) in height. Indianhemp has reddish stems that exude a milky latex when broken, which can cause skin irritation or blisters upon contact. Its flowers bloom from July to August, featuring large sepals and a five-lobed white corolla that is modest in appearance. The plant is not particularly known for its ornamental value but has historical uses in fiber production.

Indianhemp is valued for its tough, fibrous stems, which were used by Native Americans to make cordage. It thrives in full sun to part shade and prefers well-drained soils but can tolerate a range of soil conditions, including dry or moist soils. While it is not commonly used in ornamental horticulture, it can be utilized in naturalized areas or restoration projects. Gardeners should be cautious as it can spread aggressively by rhizomes and become invasive outside its native range. It is also resistant to many common herbicides, making it difficult to control once established.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 2-3 feet
  • Width: 1.5-2.5 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Green, White
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Low
  • Drainage: Fast, Medium, Slow

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Drought Tolerant, Erosion Control, Hummingbird Garden, Rabbit Resistant

Natural Habitat

Open woodlands, prairies, and riparian zones across the Eastern USA, Western Canada, and the Southwest

Other Names

Common Names: Indian-Hemp, Hemp Dogbane, Amy Root, Rheumatism Root, Wild Cotton, American-Hemp, Dogbane, Indian Hemp, Clasping-Leaved Dogbane, Prairie Dogbane

Scientific Names: , Apocynum cannabinum, Apocynum sibiricum, Apocynum venetum, Apocynum sibiricum var. farwellii, Apocynum cannabinum var. hypericifolium, Apocynum cannabinum var. glaberrimum, Apocynum cannabinum var. cannabinum, Apocynum hypericifolium, Apocynum nevadense

GBIF Accepted Name: Apocynum cannabinum L.