Dutchman's Breeches

English

Dutchman's Breeches

Latin

Dicentra cucullaria

Anishinaabemowin

(Zichmanis & Hodgi: ojidimo miskishmandaumin)

Physical Description

Dutchman's breeches is an early spring wildflower that has very characteristic white flowers that apparently once reminded people of pants or "breeches". This species has bluish-green dissected leaves that emerge along with the 1 to 1 1/2 foot flowering stem from a thickened rootstock. Dutchman's breeches are found in sugar maple hardwoods with other species such as trillium and spring beauty.
(Plants used by the Great Lakes Ojibwa)

Uses & Preparation

Although this species was reported to have been used by the Great Lakes Ojibwa, no use was specified. Among neighbouring tribes, a compound infusion of the leaves was used as a liniment for runners' limbs.
(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