Apocynum cannabinum
(Indian Hemp)
Apocynum cannabinum, Overland Trail Recreation Area, Sterling, Logan Co. 7122
Apocynum cannabinum, Overland Trail Recreation Area, Sterling, Logan Co. 7123
Apocynum cannabinum, Overland Trail Recreation Area, Sterling, Logan Co. 7128
Leaves, Apocynum cannabinum, Overland Trail Recreation Area, Sterling, Logan Co. 7129
| Scientific Name | Apocynum cannabinum | USDA PLANTS Symbol | APCA |
| Common Name | Indian Hemp | ITIS Taxonomic Serial No. | 30157 |
| Family | Apocynaceae (Dogbane) | SEINet Reference |
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| Description |
Life zones and habitat: Plains to foothills (3400 to 7500 ft.); sandy soils along ditchbanks, gravel bars and disturbed areas. Plant: Erect 2-1/2 to 5 ft. tall, initial single stemmed, becoming branched later in the season; stems are light green to red and smooth. Stems and leaves contain a milky, bitter-tasting and toxic latex. Leaves: Smooth, opposite, lanceolate to ovate, 3/4 to 5-1/2 inches long and 3/8 to 2-3/4 inches across; entire margins; medium green or yellowish green upper surface, lower light green, sometimes glaucous; short-petiolate above and sessile below. Inflorescence: Congested terminal cymes of small white flowers with 5-lobed cylindrical corollas that are 1/8 to 1/4-inch long, slightly longer to twice as long as calyx. Bloom Period: June to August. References: "Flora of Colorado" by Jennifer Ackerfield, Illinois Wildflowers and SEINet. |
BONAP Distribution Map Map Color Key |
Colorado Status: Native |
© Tom Lebsack 2025
Banner photo: Castilleja rhexifolia and a brewing storm over the San Juan Mountains
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