Apocynum cannabinum - Hemp Dogbane

Apocynum cannabinum - Hemp DogbaneSizes available: TBD, coming in 2026 Basics: zones 3 11, 2 4' x 1 2', full sun to part shade, white, summertime blooms, sandy or rocky soils, prefers a bit of moisture, but is drought tolerant once established. Some sources say the is a water lover, but maybe keeping it thirsty will check its strong growing tendency. Common names: Hemp Dogbane, Common Dogbane, Amy Root, Indian Hemp, Prairie Dogbane Family: Apocynaceae Origin Distribution: Occurs in

Sizes available: TBD, coming in 2026

Basics: zones 3-11, 2-4' x 1-2', full sun to part shade, white, summertime blooms, sandy or rocky soils, prefers a bit of moisture, but is drought tolerant once established.  Some sources say the is a water lover, but maybe keeping it thirsty will check its strong growing tendency.

Common names: Hemp Dogbane, Common Dogbane, Amy Root, Indian Hemp, Prairie Dogbane

Family: Apocynaceae

Origin/Distribution: Occurs in all contiguous states and some Canadian provinces. Native to Maine

Habitat: rocky open woods and glades, disturbed areas, roadsides, woodland edges

More: Provides nectar for pollinators. Larval host plant for the Snowberry Clearwing moth, Hemaris diffinis, which is native to Maine. This is a captivating moth that looks a bit like a hummingbird. Magical! Back to Dogbane: Native bees like to nest in the hollow stems, so while tidying up (if you do that sort of thing) cut back to about knee height and allow the stems to persist from season to season. Don't worry, this strong growing plant will cover the old stems up in no time. Will spread by rhizome and is good for erosion control or holding an edge against invasives. All parts are toxic, but the hardened sap has been used for chewing gum and the roots, latex, and berries have been used medicinally. The stems have been used for fiber and cordage. This plant contains toxic glycosides, cymarin and apocymarin. However, these glycosides have also shown anti-tumor activity. Proceed with caution. The sap may cause contact dermatitis in some people. This is a very charismatic plant to my mind, but it should not go in a border with any delicate specials or shrinking violets and should be grown with full knowledge of its numerous qualities.

Source: sown at Honey Petal Plants with seed from Toadshade Wildflower Farm

Image credits: Images from Creative Commons via the North Carolina Extension Gardener Plant Tool Box. Inflorescence courtesy of Fritz Flohr Reynolds, Seeds courtesy of MostlyDross