Where it grows: Aótooksiinnaattsi is an annual vine in the legume family. It probably has its roots in Central America. It is thought to be the final member of the plants to have been domesticated and grown for at least 6,500 years.

How to Identify: Aótooksiinnaattsi grows tall and viny and is often grown with corn and squash. Vines can reach heights of 12 to 15 feet and are often trained on trellises that provide support and are low enough to make harvesting easier.

Blackfoot: Aótooksiinaattsi

Aótooksiinnaattsi is believed to be a gift from the Great Spirit. Additionally, the creator gave corn and squash which developed into the natural allies of  Aótooksiinnaattsi. Aótooksiinnaattsi are a blessing for gardeners since they fix nitrogen in the soil, an essential component for the growth of other crops.

Pole Beans along with corn and squash are referred to as the Three Sisters by many Indigenous communities. When planted together the three plants work together to help one another thrive. Beans provide nitrogen to fertilize the soil and use the corn to grow upwards and stabilize the corn in wind. Beans were introduced to the Blackfoot people in the early 1900’s along with other contemporary vegetable hybrids.

Food Uses:

• Aótooksiinnaattsi have great nutritional value both raw and cooked.