Rockport Texas - The History, Legends & Lore 1st Printing | Page 58

DOLLARWEED (sp. Hydrocotyle var.) It’s also known as Marsh Pennywort, it’s normally considered a noxious weed, although it is a native. And it’s edible! It can even be substituted for Cilantro in Salsa - use the young, tender leaves. LORE: According to the February 2008 Journal of Natural Medicines, 2 new Antioxidants were found in Dollarweed. Also notable, is that Dollarweed is loaded with Minerals, as well as, Vitamins A, B1 and C. REDBAY (sp. Persea borbonia) An attractive North American native and a member of the Laurel Family, the Redbay was well used here in our area by some of our first European settlers, not only as a seasoning, but also, the waxy Bay Berries were used to make aromatic candles. LORE: In Rome and Greece the Bay was a symbol of Victory, and during Medieval times, the Europeans believed the tree and leaves would protect them against Witchcraft. 57