Wildbane
Inventa spes
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.
Tiny florets cluster in dense spherical heads atop tall stalks, colored storm grey. Blooms during thunderstorms.
Habitat
Colonizes disturbed ground, often the first to return after fire.
Traditional Uses
Tea brewed from young leaves was believed to improve memory.
Folklore
Said to be beloved by bees from hives that produce the clearest honey.
Similar Species
Related to Crowshade.
Conservation
Stable where traditional land management continues.
Field Notes
May be overlooked due to its unassuming appearance.