The Japanese Knotweed
pushes asparagus-like
shoots through earth
in spring —
a delicacy steamed
or sauteed.
Lush with emerald leaves
and swelling buds through summer —
nourishing and protecting.
When fall approaches
the fragrant white blossoms explode —
crowded with honeybees
extracting sweet nectar
in a fury of pollination.
They hum and hover by the hundreds
gathering food for winter’s passing.
An herbalist harvests
roots and leaves —
creating teas and tinctures
for Lyme disease sufferers.
Another bounty of life
this wild plant delivers.
