ART by HEIDRUN

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• Native American portraits and art
• landscapes
• wildlife
• botanical illustrations
• patriotic themes
• Pets
• Americana
• Sculptures and Architecture
• Living Portraits

Wildflower Bounty
The yellow "Black-eyed Susan" or Rudbeckia hirta is widespread in the US.  The red " Indian Paintbrush" or Castilleja has over 200 varieties as a native to the Americas.   The flowers are sweet and edible in small quantities and were used by native tribes as condiments.   The Chippewa made a hair wash from its leaves.   However, a high selenium content can render the plant potentially toxic if consumed in large quantities or if the leaves are ingested.   In 1917 Castilleja linariefolia became the Wyoming state flower.   The tall blue "Bellflower" or Campanula americana prefers rich, moist thickets.  The Meskwaki of Iowa brewed a tea from the leaves to treat consumption or as gargle for sore throat.