This fast-spreading native shrub (Spiraea tomentosa) is forming crowds in the damper parts of our fields and wood edges.
One of its three most common names is “meadowsweet,” which is a bit obscure, but interesting. The name derives from “meodu-swete,” an Anglo-Saxon word, meaning “mead sweetener,” a plant used to flavor the ancient alcoholic drink known as mead.
The other two common names are obviously descriptive. One is “steeplebush,” which describes the shape of the flower stalk. The other common name is “hardhack,” which describes your challenge if you try to make a path through its density.
(Image taken in Brooklin, Maine on July 23, 2024.)