Dewberry
Antiqua filicina
Crystallaceae (the Crystal family)
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Description
A deciduous herb dying back to rootstock each winter. Narrow, grass-like leaves emerge in dense tufts from the base.
Composite flower heads resemble small moons with ray and disc florets, colored shadow purple. Blooms only in leap years.
Habitat
Found only near standing stones and ancient earthworks.
Traditional Uses
Tea brewed from young leaves was believed to improve memory.
Folklore
Children believed it could reveal hidden paths through forests.
Similar Species
Resembles Ironshrub.
Conservation
Locally common but declining in some parts of its range.
Field Notes
Best observed in early morning when dew collects on the leaves.