English
Canada Hawkweed
Latin
Hieracium kalmii
Anishinaabemowin
wabigwan (Smith: wabi 'gwun) (Smith: memisku 'nakuk)
Physical Description
Canada hawkweed is a perennial species that grows to heights of 2 to 5 feet. The numerous leaves occur all the way up the stem, are somewhat clasping at the base, and have few teeth. Unlike other hawkweeds, there is no basal rosette of leaves at flowering time. The yellow dandelion-like flowers are about 1 inch in diameter and bloom in loose clusters from July to September. Canada hawkweed grows in sandy soil in fields, thickets, wood edges, and on beaches.
(Plants used by the Great Lakes Ojibwa)
(Plants used by the Great Lakes Ojibwa)
Uses & Preparation
Both the flowers and roots were used traditionally as hunting charms.
(Plants used by the Great Lakes Ojibwa)
(Plants used by the Great Lakes Ojibwa)
Sources
Plants used by the Great Lakes Ojibwa, Meeker, Elias and Heim, Great Lakes Indian Fish and Wildlife Commission, Odanah, WI, 1993