Good info, guys. I now have been able to determine that, in all probability, the stuff nearest my home is Arundo Donax--which seems very limp and has occasional spikelets growing out of the nodes. The stuff 25 or so miles away appears to be Phragmites or common cane. It lacks the spikes which I think would be hard to sand down, and may do for arrows. We will see when dried.
As for the Youpon Holly shoots, I am hoping someone who has tried both will come along and compare them with dogwood.
Best regards,
Russ
