Commonberry
Auroraa digita
Somnaceae (the Dream family)
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Description
An ephemeral annual appearing only during specific astronomical events. Needle-like foliage arranged in spirals along the stem.
Papery bracts surround insignificant true flowers, colored luminous gold. Blooms after the first frost.
Habitat
Prefers boggy meadows and the margins of still water.
Traditional Uses
Poultices of crushed leaves applied to ease minor aches.
Folklore
Children believed it could reveal hidden paths through forests.
Similar Species
Related to Oldsnow.
Conservation
Locally common but declining in some parts of its range.
Field Notes
A hand lens reveals details invisible to the naked eye.