River Cane
Sep 10, 2023, 10:32 PM
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River cane, seen here along the banks of the Valley River, is a type of bamboo. In fact, it is the only species of bamboo native to North America.
This plant was once very common in this area and throughout the Southeastern United States. Early European explorers described vast stands of river cane, especially in river lowlands. These cane brakes often covered hundreds of thousands of acres but have since declined significantly—nearly disappearing altogether—due to land clearing and farming.
Before European colonization, river cane was extremely important to the Cherokee and other Native American peoples. The plant, called i-hi (pronounced ee-hee) by the Cherokee, was used to make chairs, arrow shafts, blowguns, fishing poles, baskets, and many other essential items for daily life.
While modern technology has replaced most of the traditional uses for river cane, the Cherokee still use it today to create beautiful baskets and mats.
River cane has nearly vanished from the region and is now difficult to find. However, the Cherokee Nation’s Natural Resources Department, along with other environmental groups, is working to restore it by planting new stands and helping to revitalize its growth.
This plant was once very common in this area and throughout the Southeastern United States. Early European explorers described vast stands of river cane, especially in river lowlands. These cane brakes often covered hundreds of thousands of acres but have since declined significantly—nearly disappearing altogether—due to land clearing and farming.
Before European colonization, river cane was extremely important to the Cherokee and other Native American peoples. The plant, called i-hi (pronounced ee-hee) by the Cherokee, was used to make chairs, arrow shafts, blowguns, fishing poles, baskets, and many other essential items for daily life.
While modern technology has replaced most of the traditional uses for river cane, the Cherokee still use it today to create beautiful baskets and mats.
River cane has nearly vanished from the region and is now difficult to find. However, the Cherokee Nation’s Natural Resources Department, along with other environmental groups, is working to restore it by planting new stands and helping to revitalize its growth.