A genus of North American shrubs known as leatherwood, characterized by tough, flexible branches and small yellowish flowers.
Of uncertain origin; possibly from a Native American language or a classical reference. The common name 'leatherwood' refers to the plant's characteristically flexible, leather-like bark.
Dirca palustris branches are so incredibly flexible that Native Americans used them to weave fish traps—modern archers and basket-weavers still prefer them because they literally won't snap.
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