one of my favorite plants

we call it "dokudami" in Japanese. its scientific name is Houttuynia cordata.
(http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Houttuynia)

this plant grows in a somewhat shady place and where the soil is acidic. its super pervasive and strong.
it has white flowers, green& dark reddish leaves, and a strong scent. often people treat it like a nuisance but the whole plant is said to have a dozen of medicinal benefits so people soometimes call the plant "ju-yaku, or ten medicines" e.g. to prevent constipation, arterial sclerosis, high blood pressure, to name a few.

so i picked a bunch of it, bound it into bundles, then hung it over a bamboo pole at my dad's cabin to dry it. ill make tea out ot it when its dry and crisp. i can't wait:)