Youngthorn
Faya rorida
Memoriae (the Memory family)
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Description
A tall biennial with a deep taproot and rosette of basal leaves. Feathery, finely divided leaves resembling green lace.
Orchid-like blooms with intricate markings that guide pollinators, colored shadow purple. Blooms at the summer solstice.
Habitat
Requires the specific mycorrhizal networks of old-growth woodland.
Traditional Uses
The bitter root served as a digestive tonic.
Folklore
Associated with poets and those who work with words.
Similar Species
Grows alongside Commonwish.
Conservation
Recovering after near-extinction in the previous century.
Field Notes
Photographing this species requires patience and soft light.