Elfheart
Nocta muscosa
Silentaceae (the Silence family)
. * .
\|/
. --*-- .
/| / | / | . | .
/ | . \ | / .
\|//
|
.|.
/_|_
Description
An ephemeral annual appearing only during specific astronomical events. Foliage consists of deeply lobed palmate leaves with purple venation.
Large, solitary blooms open at dusk and close before dawn, colored luminous gold. Blooms during thunderstorms.
Habitat
Grows in the shadow of libraries and places where books are kept.
Traditional Uses
Traditionally used as a sleep aid, with dried leaves placed under pillows.
Folklore
Considered unlucky by some, fortunate by others - opinions vary by region.
Similar Species
Compare with Sunwort.
Conservation
Recovering after near-extinction in the previous century.
Field Notes
Photographing this species requires patience and soft light.