lifetime and compiled from field outings and interviews with notable ethnobiologist and botanist Nancy J. Turner. In this unprecedented collection of botanical information, over 140 plants are categorized within their broad botanical groupings: algae and seaweeds, lichens, fungi and mushrooms, mosses and liverworts, ferns and fern-allies, coniferous trees, deciduous trees, shrubs and vines, and herbaceous flowering plants. Each entry is illustrated with a colour photo and includes the plant’s Traditional Indigenous Foods common, scientific and Hul’q’umi’num’′ Materials and Medicines names; a short description; where to espected Cowichan Tribe find it; and cultural knowledge Elder and botanical expert related to the plant. Additional Luschiim Arvid Charlie, began notes encompass plant use, his education in early childhood, safety and conservation; the learning from his great linguistic writing system used for grandparents and others of their Hul’q’umi’num’′plant names; as generation. Luschiim’s Plants well as miscellaneous notes from represents his dedication to the interviews with Luschiim. This survival of the Hul’q’umi’num’′ volume is an important addition language and traditional to the bookshelves of botanists knowledge of plants for future and will fascinate anyone with generations. From the healing an interest in plants of the West properties of qaanlhp (arbutus) to Coast and their traditional uses the many practical applications of by Coast Salish peoples. q’am (bull kelp), the information Dr. Luschiim Arvid Charlie was presented in this remarkable born in Quamichan, one of the guide shares knowledge of Cowichan Villages, in 1942 and plants that Luschiim is familiar has lived in the Duncan, area all with through his own Elders’ his life. From the age of three, teachings and by way of direct he began learning about plants experience over the course of his
to the teaching of Coast Salish culture and traditions in a wide range of contexts, as well as his commitment to the protection of the environment and preservation of the Hul’q’umi’num’′ language. and their various uses from the Elders in his family. Since then, he has made it a personal priority to gather knowledge about the natural environment. In 2007, he received an Honorary Doctorate of Letters degree at Malaspina University-College in recognition of his extensive contributions
Nancy Turner is internationally known for her work in ethnobotany, the study of plants and cultures. She lives in Nanaimo. October 3 Luschiim’s Plants, Book Talk and Signing, 3-4pm Cowichan Estuary Nature Centre, 1845 Cowichan Bay Rd, Cowichan Bay. FREE
Luschiim’s Plants
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