Bittersweet and Honeysuckle

Two native plants, the scrambler Bittersweet and the climber Honeysuckle common in hedgerows and woodland in the Wye Valley.

Bittersweet, Solanum dulcamara

Common names include reference to habitat, as in the Lancastrian name Robin-run-the-hedge; a probable perceived supernatural purpose in Witchflower and its appearance in Snake-flower: these last two names are used in Somerset. The name Bittersweet comes from the berries green in this photo, ripening through yellow to bright red later in the year, which first taste sweet then bitter.

The five purple petals set off the cone of yellow stamens.

Grigson relates how German physicians in the sixteenth century introduced the stalks into medicine which was then used to treat rheumatism, skin diseases and as a purgative. Garlands of Bittersweet were also used to protect against the effects of witchcraft in man and beasts.

Honeysuckle, Lonicera periclymenum

The stalkless flowers are unmistakable in whorls at the end of stems and are very fragrant especially in the evening when pollinating moths are attracted. There are five stamens, projecting from the corolla tube as does the single style. Leaves are opposite, oval and short stalked. I think all those features can be seen here.

The folklore is extensive. As ever the folk names reflect habit as in Bindweed, Woodbine and Bindwood, and shape as in Trumpet Flower: all these are Yorkshire names. Taste is reflected in Honeysuck and Suckles and the supernatural in Fairy Trumpets: all Somerset names.

Honeysuckle was an important plant in averting evil powers on May Day and took care of milk, butter and the cows. The plant was sometimes unpopular with woodsmen as it constricted the growth of young trees and it could constrict more than trees.... There is a very threatening story in the ballad of Willie's Lady when a witch tried to prevent a birth by a ' bush o' woodbine ' being planted between the witch's home and the lady's. Don't worry - happy ending as the shrub was removed. 

As this is published on Twitter's #FolkloreThursday there is a strong folklore element. I hope you have found it interesting. I plan to post again on Sunday when the tone might be more botanical!

As ever thanks to Harrap's Wildflowers, Stace 4, Grigson The Englishman's Flora and Mabey Flora Britannica.