Dreamshade
Hederaa fruticosa
Mythicaceae (the Myth family)
. * .
\|/
. --*-- .
/| / | / | . | .
/ | . \ | / .
\|//
|
.|.
/_|_
Description
An epiphytic grower attaching to bark and stone without rooting in soil. Aromatic leaves release fragrance when crushed between fingers.
Tiny florets cluster in dense spherical heads atop tall stalks, colored frost blue. Blooms after long silences.
Habitat
Colonizes disturbed ground, often the first to return after fire.
Traditional Uses
Stems were woven into wreaths for doorways during festivals.
Folklore
Legend says it first grew where a falling star touched earth.
Similar Species
Grows alongside Frostsong.
Conservation
Locally common but declining in some parts of its range.
Field Notes
Best observed in early morning when dew collects on the leaves.