Ironfinger
Solaa corolla
Mythicaceae (the Myth family)
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Description
A shrubby perennial with woody stems and aromatic foliage. Compound pinnate leaves with 7-13 leaflets arranged alternately.
Large, solitary blooms open at dusk and close before dawn, colored storm grey. Blooms during thunderstorms.
Habitat
Thrives in coastal dunes and salt-spray zones.
Traditional Uses
Pressed flowers preserved in books were exchanged as tokens of affection.
Folklore
Legend says it first grew where a falling star touched earth.
Similar Species
Often mistaken for Morningshade.
Conservation
Recovering after near-extinction in the previous century.
Field Notes
A hand lens reveals details invisible to the naked eye.