A New Tanning Plant.

Practical Magazine 18, 1876

(Chemistry applied to the Arts, Manufactures, &c.
Dyeing, Calico Printing, Bleaching, Tanning, and Allied Subjects.)

It is stated that for tanning purposes oak bark is surpassed by the Western tannin plant, Polygonum amphibitem, which grows abundantly in the Missouri valley. It contains 18 per cent. of tannin, or half as much again as the best bark, and at large establishments in Chicago where it is employed it is said to yield one-third more leather than could be obtained from the same quantity of bark by the same process of tanning. The leather is also tougher, more durable, of finer texture, and capable of receiving a higher polish. The plant being an annual, can be mown and stacked like hay.