Mistear
Lunaa spina
Umbraceae (the Shadow family)
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Description
A climbing vine that seeks moonlight, turning its leaves toward the night sky. Thick, succulent leaves store moisture and have a bluish bloom.
Flowers are small, star-shaped, blooming in umbels of 12-20, colored dawn pink. Blooms during thunderstorms.
Habitat
Found in ancient forests where the canopy blocks all but dappled light.
Traditional Uses
None recorded - this plant seems to have escaped human attention until now.
Folklore
Folk wisdom holds that it should never be brought indoors.
Similar Species
Often mistaken for Falseroot.
Conservation
Thriving in disturbed habitats created by human activity.
Field Notes
Look for characteristic growth pattern on north-facing surfaces.