Dewherb
Hiberna nivea
Nebulosae (the Mist family)
. * .
\|/
. --*-- .
/| / | / | . | .
/ | . \ | / .
\|//
|
.|.
/_|_
Description
A creeping groundcover spreading by underground rhizomes. Leaves are translucent and veined with gold, visible when backlit.
Large, solitary blooms open at dusk and close before dawn, colored deep violet. Blooms during thunderstorms.
Habitat
Grows exclusively in the cracks of old stone walls and ruins.
Traditional Uses
The root makes a mordant dye ranging from grey to silver depending on preparation.
Folklore
Considered unlucky by some, fortunate by others - opinions vary by region.
Similar Species
Hybridizes with Summervine.
Conservation
Rare and protected - do not collect without permission.
Field Notes
Best observed in early morning when dew collects on the leaves.