Dutchman Breeches

Family:  Poppy
 Species:  cucullaria.

Habitat:  Grows in rich woods.

Distinctive Characteristics:  The blossom is pantaloon shaped.  They have soft divided leaves.  It grows to be about 4-12" long.  The flower is 3-4" wide.  The leaves are about 3-6" long.

Uses:   Although it is potentially poisonous, the root was once used for skin aliments.

Folklore:  Folk names are:  Sailor's Cap, Ear Drop (because they hang like ear rings), Monks Head, Bachelors Breeches, Butterfly, Kitten Breeches, and Boys and Girls.  Dutchman's breeches were used by the Menomonie Indians.  They were used as  an important love charm.  The boy tries to through it at his intended and hit her with it.  Or he'll chew the root, breathing out so  the scent will go to her.  Then he will circle her and when she catches the scent she will follow him where ever he goes.