Shrubby yellowcrest facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Shrubby yellowcrest
Scientific classification
Kingdom:	Plantae
Clade:	Tracheophytes
Clade:	Angiosperms
Clade:	Eudicots
Clade:	Rosids
Order:	Myrtales
Family:	Lythraceae
Genus:	Heimia
Species:	H. salicifolia
Binomial name
Heimia salicifolia Link
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Heimia salicifolia is a fascinating flowering plant often called shrubby yellowcrest or sun opener. It belongs to the Loosestrife family, which is known for many beautiful plants. This plant grows naturally across a huge area, from the southwestern United States (like Texas and New Mexico) all the way through Mexico and Central America down to Argentina in South America.

The tiny seed of Heimia salicifolia seen up close.

Traditional Uses

For a long time, native peoples in Central America and Mexico have used Heimia salicifolia in their traditional ceremonies. They have a special way to prepare the plant.

First, fresh leaves are gathered and allowed to wilt a little. Then, these leaves are placed into a cup or jar. Cool water is added to the leaves.

The mixture is then left in the sun to brew. This process can take at least 24 hours. People believe that during this time, the plant mixture absorbs the "knowledge of the sun." This creates what they call the "elixir of the sun."