Abstract

Ratroot, or Acorus americanus (Raf.) Raf. (Acoraceae), can be propagated from seed harvested from natural sites in northeastern Alberta. Light is required for germination, and germination is most successful at warm temperatures (15/25 °C). Seedlings can be quickly (< 4 mo) and easily produced under greenhouse conditions. Additionally, elongating rhizomes (either from wild harvest or greenhouse production) can be successfully divided to multiply plants and to produce larger stock. Ratroot is found in many wetlands throughout northern Alberta and is an important medicinal plant for Aboriginal peoples.

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