Butcher’s Broom.

Butcher's Broom

Ruscus aculeatus L. Fam. Liliaceae. Characteristics: a suffrutex formed from a strong rhizome with stems branching above an erect single stalk. The fruit is a smooth red berry.

Habitat: common in chestnut woods, in ilex thickets and old pinewoods.

Uses and properties: the stems are collected for display. The new spring shoots are edible. Anti-inflammatory, astringent, diuretic and sudorific properties.