Another species was quite abundant near our camp: the Spring Beauty or Claytonia lanceolata.
This one inspired some interesting conversation. One of the workshop staff asked if this and several other flowers held any cultural significance for me. I didn't know how to respond, until we finally identified the plant. As it turns out, this particular plant is also known as the "Indian potato." My father had shown this plant to me many years ago, but I had forgotten. I had also eaten it at at least one Native feast, but did not remember seeing the plant.
Seeing this plant brought back important pieces of cultural memory. That alone would have made the workshop worth my time.
This one inspired some interesting conversation. One of the workshop staff asked if this and several other flowers held any cultural significance for me. I didn't know how to respond, until we finally identified the plant. As it turns out, this particular plant is also known as the "Indian potato." My father had shown this plant to me many years ago, but I had forgotten. I had also eaten it at at least one Native feast, but did not remember seeing the plant.
Seeing this plant brought back important pieces of cultural memory. That alone would have made the workshop worth my time.
The flowers are beautiful!
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