Cane is either of two genera of tall, perennial grasses with flexible, woody stalks from the family Poaceae, that grow throughout the world. The genera include species of bamboo. The genus Arundo is native from the Mediterranean region to the Far East. Arundinaria is found in the New World. Cane commonly grows in large riparian stands known as canebrakes, found in toponyms throughout the Southern and Far Western United States; they are much like the tules of California.

Depending on strength, cane can be fashioned for various purposes such as tools and walking sticks/crutches. Judicial canes, or school canes. Where canes are used in corporal punishment, they must meet particular specifications, such as a high degree of flexibility. Cane historically has been used for many other purposes such as baskets, furniture, boats, roofs and wherever stiff, withy sticks can be put to good use.