Two-leaved shade flower (Maianthemum bifolium)
Swedish: Ekorrbär | English: False Lily of the Valley | Family: Asparagus family (Asparagaceae)
Two-leaved shade flower (Maianthemum bifolium)
Botanical illustration: Two-petaled shadeflower (Maianthemum bifolium), in Swedish'Ekorrbär'.
The two-leaved shade flower (Maianthemum bifolium) is figuratively called Ekorrbär (squirrel berry) in Swedish.
It inhabits mossy forest floors in the shade of old spruce trees. The exact two heart-shaped stem leaves and the fragrant white flower clusters in early summer are characteristic.
Facts & Characteristics
- Scientific Name: Schattenbluemchen
- Category / Order: Pflanzen (Flora)
- Nature, Taiga & Waters of Västerbotten: Nature, Taiga & Waters of Västerbotten
- Native to Northern Sweden: Native to Northern Sweden
Questions & Answers (FAQ)
Why is the plant called Ekorrbär in Swedish?
A Swedish folk belief said that squirrels collect and eat the bright red autumn berries.
Are the red berries of the shadow flower poisonous?
YES! The berries contain heart-active saponins and should under no circumstances be consumed by humans.