Mandragora autumnale

From rocky pine woods in the coastal mediterranean region, comes a plant that boasts more mystery and intrigue than a Stephen King novel. The roots (containing the alkaloid hyoscyamine) of this member of the solanacae family (tomatoes and potatoes) are said to resemble a human and therefore have both medicinal and magical properties. History also reports that the roots "shriek" when pulled from the ground. The flat rosette of sandpapery green foliage serves as a foil to the small lavender flowers that are borne in very early spring. If nothing else, it'll be the life of your next garden party!