Use of Native Plants by Mormon Settlers

Use of Native Plants by Mormon Settlers

Location: Orton Botanical Garden

Description: Retired cultural historian Tom Schwartz will conduct a free 90-minute class, looking at the use of native plants by early Mormon settlers. This class will explore a somewhat forgotten aspect of Mormon colonization of the west, how native plants helped Mormon pioneers survive those early harsh winters. Plants like Sego lilies, camas, redroot pigweed, thistles, gooseberries, currants, elderberries, and nettles helped keep settlers alive until they were able to establish sustainable crops through farming and irrigation. Attention will also be given to pioneer use of native plants for medicinal purposes. The class will include a slide presentation followed by a garden tour focusing on edible and medicinal native plants.

Host or Publisher Orton Botanical Garden