Cloudfinger
Crepusca halitus
Umbraceae (the Shadow family)
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Description
A tall biennial with a deep taproot and rosette of basal leaves. Narrow, grass-like leaves emerge in dense tufts from the base.
Fragrant flowers release their scent only under specific conditions, colored pearl white. Blooms after the first frost.
Habitat
Colonizes disturbed ground, often the first to return after fire.
Traditional Uses
Stems were woven into wreaths for doorways during festivals.
Folklore
Its presence was thought to indicate pure water nearby.
Similar Species
Related to Fernrain.
Conservation
Possibly extinct in the wild - surviving only in botanical gardens.
Field Notes
Fragrance is strongest just after rain.