Apocynum cannabinum
The Real "INDIAN HEMP"

News reports that the mummy found in Spirit Cave (Nevada) was wrapped in hemp caused quite a stir. It would have been the first proof of pre-Columbian cannabis in the New World. The archaeologist explained, however, that the "hemp" in this case was "Indian Hemp," not cannabis hemp.

It's not a rare confusion.

Historically, the word "hemp" was applied to many native fibers encountered by European explorers, especially those from the stems of plants or used principally for cordage (Manila hemp, Mauritius hemp, bowstring hemp, etc.).

We have another example in a famous quote from George Washington, a quote oft repeated by industrial hemp enthusiasts: "Make the most of the Indian hemp seed. Sow it everywhere." The problem with this quote is that had Washington meant cannabis hemp he would have simply said "hemp." That he applied the modifier "Indian" indicates he was talking of a different plant. ("Indian hemp" has also been used to mean cannabis from India, the intoxicating variety. As much as some may wish to think it, that's not what Washington was talking about either.)

What is this "Indian" hemp, then?

It is in fact the staple fiber plant of Native Americans, also known as Dogbane, and classified by botanists as Apocynum cannabinum.

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