Adder's Tongue

Adder's Tongue is a small, unassuming plant with a single, lance-shaped leaf that gives rise to a slender stalk topped by a single, delicate flower. The flower is typically pale yellow or white and resembles a snake's tongue, hence the plant's name. The leaf is often speckled with darker markings, adding to its distinctive appearance. The entire plant rarely grows more than a few inches tall. Adder's Tongue prefers damp, shaded environments. It is often found growing in moist woodlands, along stream banks, and in damp meadows. It thrives in areas with rich, well-drained soil and partial to full shade. It is particularly common in areas where magical energies are present, such as near fey crossings or ancient groves. It often grows amongst other woodland plants and can be easily overlooked due to its small size and unassuming appearance. Adder's Tongue has a variety of uses. The leaves can be eaten as fresh or blanched greens, offering a slightly bitter, earthy flavor. Medicinally, it is used to treat fresh wounds and old scars, and it possesses anti-inflammatory properties. It is sometimes used internally to treat internal wounds, though this is less common due to the risk of misidentification with similar, but toxic, plants. Finally, Adder's Tongue is a key ingredient in certain magical potions, most notably love-attracting potions.