Asclepiadaceae Asclepias sp.

Milkweed

Cahuilla - Fiber, Cordage

Use documented by:
Bean, Lowell John and Katherine Siva Saubel, 1972, Temalpakh (From the Earth); Cahuilla Indian Knowledge and Usage of Plants, Banning, CA. Malki Museum Press, page 43

View all documented uses for Asclepias sp.

Scientific name: Asclepias sp.
Common names: Milkweed
Family: Asclepiadaceae
Family (APG): Apocynaceae
Native American Tribe: Cahuilla
Use category: Fiber
Use sub-category: Cordage
Notes: Stem cordage used to make nets, slings and snares to capture small game. The stem was pounded to loosen the fiber, which then was extracted by rubbing the stem between the palms of the hands. The fiber was rolled on the thigh to produce cordage; its many uses testified to its natural strength and durability.

RECRD: 11285 id: 6172