Ironshrub
Corva nebulosum
Stellaceae (the Star family)
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Description
A creeping groundcover spreading by underground rhizomes. Heart-shaped leaves with downy undersides and serrated margins.
Bell-shaped flowers hang in nodding racemes, colored pale silver. Blooms at the summer solstice.
Habitat
Native to high alpine screes above the treeline.
Traditional Uses
Poultices of crushed leaves applied to ease minor aches.
Folklore
Folk wisdom holds that it should never be brought indoors.
Similar Species
Often mistaken for Commonberry.
Conservation
Recovering after near-extinction in the previous century.
Field Notes
Often found in the company of other shade-loving species.