Dogsbane was a revered plant for Indigenous Americans because it made some of the strongest cordage of any plant fiber. A “common” name for this plant is Indian Hemp, an ode to its strength. It is a great plant for a few specific small flower pollinators, so use dogsbane to bring variety in for those the insects if you have an appropriate space! Beautiful vibrant foliage.
This pretty wildflower looks similar to common milkweed, however it is toxic to the lungs if burned, and is also toxic for dogs to eat (hence the name dogsbane!).
Growth Parameters:
Caution: dogsbane is often considered to be an aggressive spreader. If given wide open garden soil, it will spread by rhizomes fairly quickly similar to mint. In a field context with lots of surface level root competition, its ability to spread is kept much more in check. Will grow to about 4 feet tall each year. Deadhead the bean like seed pods to slow spreading by seed.
