Exploring the Native Plants of Montana

Historical Uses and Importance in the Local Ecosystem

Montana's native plants offer a glimpse into the state's rich ecological history and provide a unique perspective on the traditions and cultures of the indigenous peoples who have thrived on this land for thousands of years. From the Lodgepole Pine, which was used by the Blackfeet, Salish, and Kootenai tribes to create baskets and other woven items, to the Saskatoon Serviceberry, which was a vital source of food for the Crow and Salish, these plants have played an integral role in the lives of Montana's native peoples. In this article, we explore a selection of Montana's native plants and the fascinating historical uses that have made them so important to the region's ecosystem and cultural heritage.

Lodgepole Pine (Pinus contorta) and Quaking Aspen (Populus tremuloides): These trees have been part of the Rocky Mountain ecosystem for thousands of years, and their presence is well documented in historical records and ecological studies. Lodgepole Pine needles were used by the Blackfeet, Salish, and Kootenai tribes to make baskets and other woven items, while the inner bark was used for medicinal purposes. The bark of Quaking Aspen trees was used by the Blackfeet, Salish, and Kootenai tribes to make baskets, cradles, and other items, and the inner bark was also used as a food source.

Saskatoon Serviceberry (Amelanchier alnifolia) and Golden Currant (Ribes aureum): Both of these shrubs are native to western North America and are well adapted to the local climate and soil conditions in Montana. Saskatoon Serviceberry berries were an important food source for many indigenous peoples in Montana, including the Blackfeet, Crow, and Salish, while the branches were used to make arrows and other tools. Golden Currant berries were used for food by the Blackfeet and Flathead tribes, and the bark and roots were used for medicinal purposes.

Prickly Wild Rose (Rosa acicularis) and Creeping Mahonia (Mahonia repens): These shrubs are important sources of food and habitat for wildlife and have been used by native peoples for centuries. Prickly Wild Rose hips were an important food source for many indigenous peoples in Montana, including the Blackfeet, Salish, and Kootenai, and the branches were used to make baskets and other woven items. Creeping Mahonia berries were used for food by the Blackfeet and Flathead tribes, and the roots were used for medicinal purposes.

Colorado Blue Columbine (Aquilegia caerulea) and Heart-leaved Arnica (Arnica cordifolia): These flowers are native to Montana and occur naturally in a variety of habitats, including mountain meadows and alpine slopes. Colorado Blue Columbine flowers were used by the Blackfeet and other tribes for medicinal and ceremonial purposes, while Heart-leaved Arnica flowers were used for medicinal purposes, particularly for treating bruises and other injuries.

Wild Strawberry (Fragaria virginiana) and Rosy Pussytoes (Antennaria rosea): Both of these groundcovers are important sources of food and habitat for wildlife and have likely been part of the local ecosystem for thousands of years. Wild Strawberry berries were an important food source for many indigenous peoples in Montana, including the Blackfeet, Crow, and Salish, and Rosy Pussytoes leaves were used by the Blackfeet and other tribes to make a tea that was used to treat colds and other ailments.

Overall, these plants are an important part of Montana's natural history and cultural heritage, and they can be added to a home garden to enhance biodiversity and beauty.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

Montana Native Plant Society

Montana Indigenous Food Sovereignty Initiative

There are several sources where you can buy seeds for native Montana plants, including local nurseries, seed banks, and online retailers. It is always best to buy locally whenever possible, as locally-sourced seeds are more adapted to the local environment and are therefore more likely to thrive. Local nurseries and seed banks can be a great source of advice on the best plants for your area and how to grow them successfully.

Some online retailers that offer native Montana plant seeds include Prairie Moon Nursery, High Country Gardens, and Native American Seed. However, be sure to check the source of the seeds and make sure they are ethically sourced and not harvested from the wild.

SOURCES

  • Fisher, John C. "Plants and their uses in Blackfeet culture." Montana: The Magazine of Western History, vol. 41, no. 3, 1991, pp. 16-27.

  • Turner, Nancy J. Salish Ethnobotany. UBC Press, 1998.

  • Aspen Center for Environmental Studies. "Native American Uses of Aspen Trees."

  • University of Saskatchewan. "Native American Uses of Saskatoon Berries."

  • Scully, John. "Ethnobotany of the Blackfoot Indians." University of Nebraska Press, 1995.

  • Montana Native Plant Society. "Montana Plant Life: Golden Currant."

  • University of Saskatchewan. "Native American Uses of Mahonia Berries."

  • Aspen Center for Environmental Studies. "Native American Uses of Columbine Flowers."

  • Montana Native Plant Society. "Montana Plant Life: Heart-Leaved Arnica."

  • Kershaw, Linda. "Blackfoot Medicinal Plants." Western Producer Prairie Books, 2000.

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