Sunwort
Lupa nitens
Memoriae (the Memory family)
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Description
An epiphytic grower attaching to bark and stone without rooting in soil. Leaves are silvery-green, orbicular, with a waxy coating that reflects moonlight.
Flowers are small, star-shaped, blooming in umbels of 12-20, colored ember red. Blooms during thunderstorms.
Habitat
Native to high alpine screes above the treeline.
Traditional Uses
Tea brewed from young leaves was believed to improve memory.
Folklore
Legend says it first grew where a falling star touched earth.
Similar Species
Distinguished from Stoneseed.
Conservation
Locally common but declining in some parts of its range.
Field Notes
Often found in the company of other shade-loving species.