Rarefern
Phoenixa pluvialis
Memoriae (the Memory family)
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Description
A deciduous herb dying back to rootstock each winter. Feathery, finely divided leaves resembling green lace.
Tiny florets cluster in dense spherical heads atop tall stalks, colored frost blue. Blooms only in leap years.
Habitat
Restricted to a single valley, unknown outside its mountain home.
Traditional Uses
The seeds were carried as charms for safe travel.
Folklore
Considered unlucky by some, fortunate by others - opinions vary by region.
Similar Species
Hybridizes with Phoenixleaf.
Conservation
Recovering after near-extinction in the previous century.
Field Notes
Look for characteristic growth pattern on north-facing surfaces.