In Arizona we have a different kind of cane that grows in the moist areas and river beds. It is a cousin of the bamboos and canes that you are used to seeing but is actually a giant grass by definition. It’s scientific name is “Arundo Donax” and it grows wild in some areas of the Sonoran desert. It has recently been targeted for removal from many riparian areas because of it’s status as an “invasive species” It is a clumping vs. a running cane but will take over a riparian area if you let it. I am able to harvest what I need in areas near Phoenix and Tucson and keep producing flutes from this wonderful natural material.
My Arizona Cane Flutes vary in all shapes and sizes as well as color. The wall thickness and density of these flutes varies as well. This particular plant species yields similar wall thickness variations to bamboo… but the physical weight and density is much lighter and softer in most cases. A lightweight flute with thinner walls will dance in your hands while you play it similar to a thin-walled western red cedar flutes. I have included a few photos below in order to give you and ideas of characteristics of these flutes.
Like any Native American Style Flute… care needs to be taken not to leave the flute in an area where it could be accidently stepped on or sat on. Some of the thinner walled flutes sound the best, but are naturally a bit more fragile. I heat treat all of my cane flutes and really like the burned look of the final finish.
YUCCA NATIVE AMERICAN STYLE FLUTES | NATURAL NATIVE AMERICAN STYLE FLUTES | ARIZONA RIVER CANE FLUTES | NAF MAKER ARIZONA
