Castor bean plant (Ricinus communis) is the source of castor oil. It is called ricino or higuerilla in Spanish, and called yech! by small children dosed with it’s oil as a laxative. It’s not a Bean Castor is a member of the Euphorbiaceae, the […]
Elder or elderberry is a Southwest native somewhat shrubby tree. Virtually all parts of the plant are used. In my book on Father Kino’s Herbs, I list these uses: “Cosmetic, Culinary, Dye, Edible Flowers, Medicinal, Ornamental, Wildlife.” What’s in a Name As with any useful […]
The topic is herbs because July is National Herbal Prescription Awareness Month. Since there are a number of articles about uses of herbs on our site, this is a great opportunity to discuss using herbs for health. Herbs as a Cure All? As many of […]
As I wrie this it is holiday season and time for some pine. Not just because they are a holiday plant – but also because they make a great addition to your homestead landscape and can be used in many ways. Pine is Useful Pretty. […]
Agarita berries are some of the earliest fruits to harvest in our region. The berries are tart for sure – but I like the flavor better than strawberries. Finding Agarita Mind you agarita is not something found in Low Desert around Phoenix – it’s more […]
