Fireweed (Epilobium angustifolium)

Gitxsan name:  haast*
Wet'suwet'en name:  khas t'an

*also one of the four Gitxsan clan names

Botanical Description

• lance-shaped perennial with large rose to purple colored flowers
• stand 0.5 - 3.0 metres tall
• often found in disturbed areas such as recently burned sites
• also found in open forests, meadows, and riverbars                               Photo courtesy of Jim Pojar (66kB)
• low to subalpine elevations

Ethnobotanical use

In May the young stems of the fireweed were peeled and the rich "marrow" or syrup was eaten raw. The syrup, in addition to being eaten, was also used as a glue in berry rolls. The stem peelings were also used. They were dried and twisted into a strong twine for fishing nets and tumplines. It was also rumored that the roots and leaves were made into poultices for sores or rheumatism.

The Fireweed Clan is known for its healers, diplomats and emissaries to other nations.

NOTE: The Wet'suwet'en and Gitxsan had the same uses for the fireweed.

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This digital collection was produced under contract to the SchoolNet Digital Collection Program, Industry Canada.
Revised: 08/21/98