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Lizard's Tail

Saururus cernuus. Pepper Family Stem.--Jointed; often tall. Leaves.--Alternate; heart-shaped. Flowers.--White; without calyx or corolla; crowded into a slender, wand-like terminal spike which nods at the end. Stamens.--Usually six or seven. Pistils.--Three or four, united at their base.

The nodding, fragrant spikes of the lizard's tail abound in certain swamps from June till August. While the plant is not a common one, it is occasionally found in great profusion, and is sure to arrest attention by its odd appearance.