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The Herbarium

A Field Guide to Real and Imaginary Plants

Truedream

Striga folium

Mythicaceae (the Myth family)

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Description

An evergreen with persistent leaves that last multiple seasons. Foliage consists of deeply lobed palmate leaves with purple venation.

Tubular flowers attract long-tongued pollinators with deep nectaries, colored dusty rose. Blooms in the hour before rain.

Habitat

Restricted to a single valley, unknown outside its mountain home.

Traditional Uses

The bitter root served as a digestive tonic.

Folklore

Its presence was thought to indicate pure water nearby.

Similar Species

Hybridizes with Winterflower.

Conservation

Recovering after near-extinction in the previous century.

Field Notes

Look for characteristic growth pattern on north-facing surfaces.