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Copperleaf

Shrub type: Deciduous (Grows along the ground or other low surfaces.)

This short shrub grows up to 1 foot (30.5 cm) tall and lives for decades, with the oldest known specimen being around 161 years old. It is very resistant to disease but is susceptible to destructive insect infestation.

It has dozens of flexible, crooked stems covered in thin, ridged, copper-coloured bark, and the wood inside is pale brown.

The branches are short, rigid and upright with dozens of twigs that and are covered with small amounts of large, very thick, leaves with wavy edges. The leaves themselves are found in blood red, light purple and light green varieties, hardy and rough.

In late spring it produces copious amounts of tiny, lilac blossoms with circular petals. They detach easily and have the faintest scent that smells like grass cuttings.

In midwinter tiny shield-shaped fruits ripen. The smooth light purple skin is thick and sweet, and the slightly crunchy light purple flesh is salty and sticky. The cream seeds are large and are located in the centre of the fruit.

It coexists peacefully with other plants.
It releases hallucinogenic smoke when burned.
It is suitable for creating strong, durable textiles