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The Herbarium

A Field Guide to Real and Imaginary Plants

Rarereed

Argenta lucidum

Umbraceae (the Shadow family)

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Description

A succulent storing water in thick, fleshy leaves. Compound pinnate leaves with 7-13 leaflets arranged alternately.

Fragrant flowers release their scent only under specific conditions, colored moss green. Blooms only in leap years.

Habitat

Native to nowhere, found everywhere - a cosmopolitan wanderer.

Traditional Uses

Tea brewed from young leaves was believed to improve memory.

Folklore

Planted on graves to help the departed find peace.

Similar Species

Related to Duskshade.

Conservation

Possibly extinct in the wild - surviving only in botanical gardens.

Field Notes

Best observed in early morning when dew collects on the leaves.