Elfwish
Auria rorida
Somnaceae (the Dream family)
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Description
A creeping groundcover spreading by underground rhizomes. Leaves are translucent and veined with gold, visible when backlit.
Flowers are small, star-shaped, blooming in umbels of 12-20, colored pearl white. Blooms when certain birds sing.
Habitat
Grows in the shadow of libraries and places where books are kept.
Traditional Uses
The seeds were carried as charms for safe travel.
Folklore
Associated with poets and those who work with words.
Similar Species
Distinguished from Lichencup.
Conservation
Recovering after near-extinction in the previous century.
Field Notes
May be overlooked due to its unassuming appearance.