Where it grows: Niitsi’nsimaani like sunny, warm areas that are not sheltered. They need lots of nutrients and soil that drains well.

How to Identify: There are many types of Niitsi’nsimaani that look different. All Niitsi’nsimaani produce a large fruit with a thick hard rind that protects the seeds inside. These fruits can be all sorts of shapes and can be orange, yellow, or green.

Blackfoot: Niitsi’nsimaani

Squash along with pole beans and corn are referred to as the Three Sisters by many Indigenous communities. When planted together the three plants work together to help one another thrive. The large leaves of the squash plants shade the ground which helps retain soil moisture and prevent weeds.

Food Uses:

• Indigenous people didn’t traditionally use Niitsi’nsimaani in the same way that it is used today. Whole communities depended on Niitsi’nsimaani since it didn’t deteriorate quickly and would last throughout the winter. It would be dried, used as flour, broken into pieces, and consumed.