Ethnobotany

The leaves of the windflower look very similar to those of the prairie crocus, and both grow is the same habitat. The plant may be from 15–50 cm tall with solitary flowers that are usually white or pink and from 12–20 mm across. They have five petal-like sepals, and look like a simple flower. The rounded seed head matures into a cottony mass.

According to Johnston, “the ‘cotton’ from the ripe seed heads was burned on hot coals and the smoke was inhaled for headaches.” (35)

Botany

To be added soon.

References

• Johnston, Alex. 1987. Plants and the Blackfoot. Occasional Paper No. 15., Lethbridge Historical Society, AB.