Botrychium lunaria L. is not always capricious in its occurence in Ireland

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Abstract:

The moonwort (Botrychium lunaria L.) is widely reputed to have a fleeting occurrence in many of its habitats, both in Britain and Ireland. Step described the plant as fugacious; Taylor wrote about its sporadic, uncertain occurrence. Recently Page stated that these plants have a reputation for disappearing for a number of years from places in which they have been formerly seen, although whether this is due to grazing or more inherent properties of the plant is not known. Because of its sporadic occurrence and unusual appearance the moonwort has gained a place in folklore, and was supposed to have magical properties, in helping to loosen locks and in dislodging horses' hooves.

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Reference Code: A87DOY02IDUS

Full Citation: Doyle, G. J. 1987. Botrychium lunaria L. is not always capricious in its occurence in Ireland. Irish Naturalist Journal 22(8): 336-338.

Location: PLANT EF: BOTRYCHIUM LUNARIA