The Story of Bitter Dock in New England

Although Bitter Dock (Rumex obtusifolius) is not native to New England, this unusual plant has established itself across the region, thriving in wetlands, meadows, fields, and even along the shorelines of rivers and lakes. After its introduction, it quickly adapted to local environments, becoming a common sight across shaded, moist areas. Interestingly, Native Americans discovered several practical and medicinal uses for this perennial herb, integrating it into their traditional practices.

About Bitter Dock

A member of the Polygonaceae family, Bitter Dock stands out with its broad, wavy, oval leaves, which feature rounded tips and cordate bases, resembling basal leaves. Some leaves near the bottom even sport distinct red stems. During its blooming season, which spans from June to October in Connecticut, the plant produces clusters of light green to pink flowers arranged in whorls at the top of its branches. Each branch holds 10 to 25 flowers, and by July through October, the seeds—complete with sharp spines—ripen and are dispersed by the wind. Bitter Dock can grow as tall as three feet, flourishing in shaded, moist conditions and making its presence known in diverse ecosystems.

Medicinal and Cultural Uses

Native American communities tapped into the medicinal properties of Bitter Dock for various ailments. For instance, the Chippewa created root infusions to treat skin eruptions on children, while the Delaware and Oklahoma peoples used similar root infusions as a blood purifier and a remedy for jaundice. The Iroquois crafted a compound decoction of the roots not only to address blood disorders but also as a contraceptive. Additionally, children suffering from whooping cough were given root decoctions to alleviate their symptoms. While its medicinal applications are well-documented, culinary use appears limited to the Saanich people, who cooked and ate the plant's young stems.

Did You Know?

• Edible Leaves: The young leaves of Bitter Dock can be eaten raw or cooked but become increasingly bitter as they age.
• Seed Dispersal: While the plant’s wind-pollinated flowers do not attract insects, its seeds draw birds, which help spread them to new locations.
• Folklore: Folklore suggests that touching Bitter Dock can act as an antidote to nettle stings—a useful tip for outdoor enthusiasts!
• Weed Status: Due to its rapid proliferation in pasture lands, Bitter Dock was named one of the five injurious weeds in the 1959 Weeds Act.

A Plant of Opportunity

With its towering presence and widespread adaptability, Bitter Dock has woven itself into New England’s landscapes. Its historical uses and ecological quirks make it a plant of enduring fascination, despite its classification as an injurious weed in certain contexts. From medicinal remedies to folklore antidotes, Bitter Dock offers a glimpse into the resourcefulness of those who came before us and the ecological dynamics that shape our natural world.

Sip, Savor, Sustain: Craft Brews and Bites for Sheffield Island Lighthouse

The Norwalk Seaport Association invites you to an evening of exceptional craft beer, delicious food, and community engagement at Space Cat Brewery, located at 57 Chestnut Street in Norwalk. Mark your calendar for Monday, April 7, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., and prepare to indulge in a night of small-batch brews, hard ciders, and chef-driven appetizers by Ripkas Beach Café. Each carefully crafted pairing is designed to enhance the experience and showcase the brewery’s creative touch. From robust IPAs to crisp lagers, Space Cat Brewery’s dedication to using the finest, sustainable ingredients will delight even the most refined beer enthusiasts. 

This fundraiser supports the maintenance of Sheffield Island Lighthouse, Connecticut’s maritime treasure. At this relaxed yet engaging event, guests will hear about the Seaport Association’s exciting plans for 2025, including updates on cruise schedules, renovations to the Lighthouse, the Norwalk Oyster Festival, and new membership opportunities. It’s also a chance to learn about volunteering for an organization that has been preserving Norwalk’s maritime heritage since 1978. 

Tickets are $35 per person and include two drink vouchers (wine, beer and hard cider) and appetizers. With only 100 tickets available, advance registration is required. Don’t miss your chance to support this meaningful cause while enjoying a memorable evening. Purchase your tickets online click here or call the Seaport Office at 203-838-9444. Don’t miss this chance to enjoy a fun, relaxed evening while supporting a worthy cause. 

Proceeds from the event will directly benefit the upkeep of the Sheffield Island Lighthouse and its mission to preserve Connecticut’s maritime history. Join us to raise a glass to tradition, community, and the preservation of our shared heritage! 

About the Seaport Association 

The Seaport Association in Norwalk was founded in 1978 by a group of local citizens who had the vision to revitalize South Norwalk and preserve Norwalk’s maritime heritage. The Seaport Association offers a cultural, environmental, and historical journey to the Norwalk Islands. The Sheffield Island Lighthouse and the Light Keeper’s Cottage provide a unique historical and educational venue that strives to increase awareness, appreciation, and consideration for the environment and how the preservation of historic buildings contributes to our quality of life. The combination of the Lighthouse and the Stewart B. McKinney National Wildlife Refuge offers an unparalleled opportunity to educate children of all ages and adults about the importance of preserving Long Island Sound, our environment, and our maritime heritage.

Medicinal Monday...Spreading Dogbane: A Toxic Treasure with Centuries of Purpose

Apocynum Androsaemifolium, commonly known as Spreading Dogbane, is a striking member of the dogbane family, widely distributed across North America. Found in nearly all U.S. states, including Connecticut, as well as parts of Canada, this plant is recognized for its showy appearance and toxic properties. The common name "dogbane" and its genus name "Apocynum," which translates to "away from dog," reflect its poisonous nature—not only to dogs but also to humans, livestock, and other mammals. Despite its toxicity, Spreading Dogbane has held significant cultural and medicinal importance among Native American communities, where it was used to address various ailments and practical needs.

photo D. McGrady

About Spreading Dogbane

Spreading Dogbane is a bushy perennial that can grow up to four feet tall. This plant reproduces both through rhizomes and seeds. Its smooth, blue-green, oval leaves grow in opposite pairs, with pointed tips, while the stems, often light green to red, tend to sprawl horizontally, giving the plant a slightly willowy appearance. During summer, clusters of light pink, bell-shaped flowers emerge at the tips of its branches, adorned with darker pink stripes. These blossoms give way to long, slender pods that turn from green to red as they mature, eventually releasing cottony seeds. When the stems are broken, they exude a milky white sap containing glycosides—compounds that are highly toxic to humans and animals. In Connecticut, Spreading Dogbane thrives in fields, woodlands, and roadside areas. 

Cultural and Medicinal Uses

Medicinally, the plant played a significant role in traditional healing practices. Its roots were used to treat ailments ranging from stomach cramps and earaches to heart palpitations and sore throats. Certain tribes, like the Potawatomi, prepared decoctions of green berries as heart medicine and to alleviate kidney pain. Other uses included treating colds, headaches, and even convulsions, as documented by the Chippewa. The Iroquois utilized the plant's milky sap to treat warts, while the Cree used decoctions to support lactation. These applications highlight the plant’s extensive role in addressing both common and specialized health conditions. 

Ceremonial and Veterinary Uses 

In addition to its practical and medicinal uses, Spreading Dogbane held ceremonial significance. The Ojibwa, for example, regarded the root as sacred, incorporating it into their medicinal lodge ceremonies. The Okanagan-Colville smoked its dried leaves as an aphrodisiac, while the Chippewa chewed the root to counteract malevolent spiritual influences. 

Spreading Dogbane was also employed as a veterinary aid. The Cherokee created infusions to wash dogs suffering from mange, and the Iroquois administered root decoctions to horses to eliminate intestinal worms. 

Did You Know...

Spreading Dogbane is a close relative of Indian Hemp, Apocynum cannabinum.

Spreading Dogbane roots contain cymarin, a powerful cardiac stimulant.

Spreading Dogbane is an important source of food for bees, wasps, flies, and butterflies including the Monarch, American Lady and Spring Azure.

Spreading Dogbane is not found in Hawaii, Kansas, Louisanana, Mississippi, Florida, and South Carolina. 

Spreading Dogbane is also known as Flytrap Dogbane and Bitterroot.

While its toxicity might suggest otherwise, Spreading Dogbane is a plant of immense historical, cultural, and ecological value. From its use in crafting essential tools and textiles to its role in treating ailments and supporting pollinators, this remarkable plant serves as a testament to the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the communities that have utilized it for centuries.

Pour Sustainability on Your Pancakes: Experience the Sweet Magic of Bird Friendly Maple Syrup at GMF

Why settle for ordinary syrup when you can pour sustainability, tradition, and innovation onto your pancakes? 

For nearly 80 years, Great Mountain Forest (GMF) has been perfecting the craft of maple sugaring, blending tradition with innovation. Nestled in the heart of Norfolk, Connecticut, GMF is a pioneer in climate-smart forestry and the proud producer of the state’s first Bird Friendly Maple Syrup. This isn’t your ordinary syrup; it’s a testament to sustainable forestry, thriving wildlife habitats, and the beauty of a balanced ecosystem. Every bottle tells a story, and now, you’re invited to be part of it. 

On Saturday, March 15, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., GMF invites you to experience the magic of maple sugaring at their sugarhouse, located at 201 Windrow Road in Norfolk. This event is far more than just a visit; it’s an immersive adventure into the art and science of syrup production. From sap collection to the mesmerizing boiling process, you’ll see it all unfold before your eyes. Plus, you’ll have the chance to meet expert foresters and educators who will guide you through the fascinating science behind sap production. And the best part? Sampling the warm, delectable syrup made right before you—a taste of GMF’s extraordinary craftsmanship. 

What truly sets GMF apart is its 78-year-old Sap House diary, a one-of-a-kind log that meticulously records data on sap output, sugar content, syrup yields, weather patterns, migratory bird arrivals, and tree budding cycles. This treasure trove of information doesn’t just support syrup production—it fuels groundbreaking research on climate change and forest health. By visiting the sugarhouse, you’ll witness this perfect blend of tradition and cutting-edge science in action. 

While you’re there, don’t miss the opportunity to bring home a bottle of Connecticut’s finest maple syrup—a product deeply connected to nature’s rhythm. With every spoonful, you’ll taste the dedication that goes into making this amber liquid, from cold nights and warm days to overcoming challenges like climate change, acid rain, and soil health. Your purchase isn’t just a delicious indulgence; it supports GMF's mission of sustainability and forest stewardship. 

Can’t make it on March 15? The sugarhouse welcomes visitors on weekdays and school groups, depending on sap availability. Just call ahead at 860-542-5422 to confirm if the operation is in full swing. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this unique tradition. 

Discover Tina’s Woven Art, and Global Gemstones at Whiting Mills Third Annual Rock and Mineral Show – March 15 and 16

Mark your calendar for an unforgettable weekend! Tina’s Baskets and Woven Art is thrilled to announce the Third Annual Rock and Mineral Show, happening at the historic Whiting Mills, located at 100 Whiting Street, Winsted, Connecticut. Join us on Saturday, March 15, and Sunday, March 16, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and immerse yourself in a world of creativity, craftsmanship, and natural wonders—all under one roof!

Start your journey in Suite 305, home to Tina’s Baskets. Award-winning artist Tina Puckett will be in her studio, weaving her stunning creations. From baskets and bowls to wall hangings and sculptures, her colorful, hand-dyed designs never fail to impress. Don’t miss her newly launched Butterfly Collection of baskets and bowls, featuring vibrant jewel tones and foraged bittersweet vines, or her “Perceived Languages” Hands Collection, each piece telling a story through woven art. Keep an eye out for George, her charming ginger-colored cat, who often supervises her works!

But the excitement doesn’t stop there! Make your way to the main hall, where the Rock and Mineral Show awaits. This dazzling event features 30 professional dealers showcasing an extraordinary selection of rocks, gemstones, fossils, cabochons, and healing stones sourced from around the globe. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or simply curious, you’ll find treasures ranging from awe-inspiring minerals to unique handmade jewelry.

As you explore, take the time to wander the halls of Whiting Mills, where other artisans proudly open their studio doors. Discover curios, antiques, handcrafted jewelry, herbal teas, crystals, candles, and even a hobby shop. Hungry? Refuel with sandwiches and hot drinks available for purchase. And the best part? Entrance to this spectacular event is completely free.

About Tina's Baskets 

Tina Puckett is a master weaver whose works have graced galleries across the globe. For over four decades, she has been crafting exceptional woven art using hand-dyed reeds, bittersweet vines, and unique found items like beads and seagrass. You can visit her studio in Suite 305 at Whiting Mills, Winsted, Connecticut, where she’s often weaving on weekends from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. To arrange a private appointment and experience her art up close, text 860-309-6934.

 

Medicinal Monday... The Fascinating World of Bearberry

While bears don’t truly hibernate, their sleepy state known as torpor ends as they awaken with the arrival of early spring. It’s during this time that their favorite snack, the aptly named bearberry (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi), takes on an even more fascinating role. Beyond being a treat for bears, bearberry holds a rich history of practical and medicinal uses, particularly among Native American communities. 

About Bearberry

Bearberry is a hardy, low-growing evergreen shrub that graces rocky sites, dry sandy hills, and open woods with its distinctive beauty. Its white or pinkish flowers, tipped with red, grow in delicate clusters on branches adorned with red shredded bark. Throughout the year, its oval leaves transform in color—lush green during most seasons, red in the fall, and bronze in winter, returning to green in spring. The plant’s vibrant red berries are not only visually striking but also serve as a lifeline, providing sustenance to wildlife, including bears, which inspired its name.

Culinary Uses

The berries of this shrub have long been a staple in Native American diets, used in a variety of creative and resourceful ways. The berries were consumed raw, dried for future use, or turned into teas, broths, soups, and even fried dishes. Different tribes crafted unique recipes: the Cree combined the fruit with raw fish eggs, while the Eskimo Inupiat stored the berries in mixtures of bear fat or seal oil to make ice cream. The Tolowa baked the berries with salmon roe and sugar into bricks, and the Hanaksiala paired them with highbush cranberries or crabapples to serve at grand winter feasts. This adaptability reflects the plant’s incredible versatility and cultural significance.

Medicinal Uses

Bearberry isn’t just a culinary treasure—it also shines as a natural healer. Native American tribes harnessed its properties to treat a wide range of ailments, particularly skin conditions. The Blackfoot made an infusion of this plant and mixed it with grease and boiled hoof and applied it to rashes and skin sores, while the Carrier pounded the leaves into a paste and applied it to boils and skin eruptions. A decoction of the leaves was also used as a mouthwash to treat sore gums and canker sores. It's healing properties extended far beyond the skin. The Cheyenne made bearberry infusions to relieve back pain. The Chippewa smoked the roots to alleviate headaches, the Cree relied on it to prevent miscarriage, and the Flathead made a poultice of leaves to treat burns. The Ojibwa created bark decoctions for internal blood diseases, and rheumatism relief. The Okanagan-Colville made a decoction of the leaves to treat kidney problems and the Thompson made a decoction of the leaves to wash broken bones. 

A Sacred Smoking Tradition

One of the most intriguing uses of bearberry lies in its ceremonial role. The dried leaves were often pulverized and smoked, either alone or mixed with tobacco, giving rise to its name kinnikinnick. The smoke was believed to carry prayers to the Great Spirit, making it a vital part of spiritual rituals. Tribes such as the Chippewa, Eskimo, and Pawnee valued bearberry as a smoking herb, and in the absence of tobacco, they creatively blended it with plants like red willow, chokeberry, skunkbush, red osier, and even the bark of dogwood. The ceremonial use of bearberry highlights its role not just as a plant, but as a bridge between the earthly and the spiritual.

Did You Know...

Its scientific name comes from Greek arctos meaning bear and staphyle meaning grape.

Bearberry is an important source of food for butterflies. It serves as a host plant for several species including the Hoary Elfin.

Bearberry was first documented in The Physicians of Myddfai, a 13th century Welsh herbal document.

Whether nourishing bears in the wild or supporting traditional Native American practices, it stands as a unique testament to the relationship between society and the natural world.