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100 Desert Wildflowers in Natural Color

17. Canaigre

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This coarse, herbacious perennial is one of the early spring flowers of the desert, sometimes blooming along road shoulders and in sandy washes in late February and March. Commonly called wild rhubarb, its sap and roots are high in tannin content, and its delicately pink fruits are more attractive than the blossoms. Indians and Mexicans use the leaves for greens. Papago Indians of Arizona roast the leaves and use the roots for treating colds and sore throat. This plant is a close relative of European dock, several species of which have become naturalized in North America.

Rumex hymenosepalus Buckwheat Family

Illustration from 100 Desert Wildflowers in Natural Color

CANAIGRE

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