Leatherwood (Dirca palustris) grows deep in Ontario forests. Its bark is exceptionally tough and pliable, making it ideal for emergency survival cordage. I was first shown this plant many years ago when I was 18, on a winter survival weekend. I had never been able to find it again until recently when a fellow plant enthusiast pointed it out to me.
In the spring it is first adorned with small, fragrant, yellow flowers, before any leaves come out. Deer love to munch on the twig tips in the winter.

Here are some pictures of Leatherwood.

In Winter....

Here are close-up pictures of the bark...

And another, showing the characteristic marks that show along its stems.

This picture shows the bark fibers separated.

There are at least two layers that can be used as cordage.

No special preparation is necessary. Simply strip the bark off. (Of course, doing so usually kills or severely injures the plant!)

Once peeled off, use as cordage. It is as tough as leather, and almost impossible to break!

This picture dramatizes the pliability of leatherwood. The branches can actually be tied into knots while still alive!

The bark is extremely tough and durable, whereas the actual wood inside is very weak, and breaks easily. However, with the bark still on, the branches can be tied into knots without breaking.

Survival Containers Cordage

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