[MPWG] Looking for info on Sweet Flag

[Brandee M Wenzel]

I am looking for information concerning the possible correlation between
Sweet Flag (Acorus americanus -possibly A. calamus) and heritage resource
sites.  A number of publications and web sites have pointed towards this
notion, for instance, the Flora of North America states, "Native Americans
probably played a significant role in the present day distribution of
Acorus americanus because Sweet Flag rhizomes and plants were valued by
many groups and were objects of trade.  Disjunct populations occur in
localities that are often near old Native American village sites or camping
areas."  However, a botanical survey in the Dempsey Divide Study Area of
Oklahoma is the only research I have come across to substantiate this
interesting observation.  I understand it was used both medicinally and
ceremonially, but what about this use caused it to be so highly valued as
to affect its distibution in North America.  Any ideas?
Thanks!





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Brandee Wenzel
Wilderness Technician -BWCAW
bwenzel at fs.fed.us
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