Dogbane
Description
Dogbane (Apocynum cannabinum), also commonly known as "Indian hemp,' is a deciduous perennial herbaceous plant that grows throughout much of North America, temperate Asia and southwestern Europe. Dogbane is part of the Apocynaceae or dogbane family, which is shared with milkweeds, and is not related to true hemp despite one of its common names. All parts of the plant are poisonous and can cause cardiac arrest if ingested. The bast fibers derived from the plant's inner bark have been used for fibers and cordage throughout North America. These fibers range from 1-2 meters long and are yellow to brown to gray in color. Dogbane fibers have a high cellulose content with little lignin making it lustrous, strong, and durable with good resistance to water, salts, light, and insects. It is used for cordage, fishing lines, sailcloth, canvas, and burlap. Dogbane is also used for nets, snares and basketry.
For identification of dogbane fibers , see http://cameo.mfa.org/wiki/Category:FRIL:_Plant_Fibers Including:
- Blue dogbane (Amsonia tabernaemontana)
- Intermediate dogbane (Apocynum floribundum)
- Spreading dogbane (Apocynum androsaemifolium)
Synonyms and Related Terms
Apocynum cannbinum L; Indian hemp; amy root; hemp dogbane; prairie dogbane; rheumatism root; or wild cotton; cáñamo indio (Esp.) ; hennep (Ned);
Physical and Chemical Properties
- Resistant to water and alkalis.
- Damaged by weak acids and bleaches.
- Fiber length = 1-2 m.
- Fibers have a smooth cell wall with horizontal striations that are often packed close together.
Risks
- Combustible, may ignite spontaneously when wet.
Resources and Citations
- T.Collings, D. Miller, 'The Identification of Oriental Paper Fibers' The Paper Conservator, vol 3, 1978.
- Wikipedia: Apocynum