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Dogbane Facts

Dogbane Facts
Dogbane also known as Indian hemp or wild cotton is herbaceous plant that belongs to the dogbane family. It originates from North America. Dogbane can be found in the fields, meadows, riparian areas and pastures. It prefers moist, well-drained, gravelly or sandy soils and areas that provide enough sun. Dogbane can easily occupy gardens and agricultural fields and decrease yield of commercially important crops such as corn or soybean. People use dogbane as a source of fibers, medicine and food.
Interesting Dogbane Facts:
Dogbane has erect stem with numerous branches in the upper part. Mature stem is usually reddish-brown and woody at the base. Plant can reach 5 to 6 feet in height.
Dogbane often grows in colonies thanks to spreading roots which easily produce new plants.
Dogbane has ovate or elliptical leaves with short petioles. Leaves can be covered with hairs on the bottom side. Color of the leaves changes from green to yellow during the autumn. Leaves are oppositely arranged on the stem.
Dogbane produces white or greenish-white, small, bell-shaped flowers arranged in terminal clusters. Flowers contain both types of reproductive organs (bisexual).
Dogbane blooms from July to August. Flowers attract butterflies and moths, main pollinators of this species.
Fruit of dogbane is slender pod equipped with tuft of silky hairs on one of its ends. Dogbane produces fruit in pairs. Ripe pods are brown colored and filled with numerous small seed.
Scientific name of the plant "Apocynum" means "poisonous to dogs". Name refers to toxic effects that this plant produces in dogs.
Stem and leaves of dogbane secrete milky sap when they are broken or injured.
Milky sap is yellowish-white, sticky and it contains bitter compounds that are unpalatable and toxic for the most herbivores (majority of animals will eat dogbane only in the case that other plants are not available). Sheep are especially sensitive and prone to intoxication induced by dogbane.
Compounds isolated from the milky sap of dogbane can be used as cardiac stimulants in treatment of cardiac arrhythmia. Dogbane can be also used in treatment of dysentery and fever.
Fibers isolated from the stem of dogbane are used for the manufacture of cordage, twines and other items at least 1.000 years. Native Americans used dogbane for the manufacture of fishing nets, traps for rabbits and deer, beddings for the cradles, baskets, shoes and cloths.
Dogbane can be used for the extraction of excess lead (which is poisonous for most living creatures) from the polluted areas.
Seed of dogbane can be ground into flour and used in human diet.
Milky sap obtained from the stem of dogbane can be used for the manufacture of rubber.
Dogbane is perennial plant, which means that it can survive more than 2 years in the wild.


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