Barrenwort

/ˈbærənwɜːrt/ noun

Definition

A low-growing flowering plant, often with heart-shaped leaves, belonging to the genus Epimedium; also called fairy wings or bishop's hat.

Etymology

From barren + wort (Old English for plant). The name refers to the plant's traditional (false) reputation for causing infertility, though this has no scientific basis.

Kelly Says

Despite its discouraging name suggesting infertility, barrenwort is actually prized in traditional Chinese medicine as a fertility enhancer—the name came from medieval misunderstandings that persist in the English common name.

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