Crystalwort
Vespera osculum
Crystallaceae (the Crystal family)
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Description
A deciduous herb dying back to rootstock each winter. Compound pinnate leaves with 7-13 leaflets arranged alternately.
Flowers have six tepals and emit a faint bioluminescent glow, colored honey amber. Blooms during thunderstorms.
Habitat
Thrives in coastal dunes and salt-spray zones.
Traditional Uses
The seeds were carried as charms for safe travel.
Folklore
Its presence was thought to indicate pure water nearby.
Similar Species
Resembles Falseroot.
Conservation
Rare and protected - do not collect without permission.
Field Notes
Sometimes forms fairy rings in undisturbed locations.