LEATHERLEAF

also called Cassandra (Chamaedaphne calyculata), evergreen shrub of the heath family (Ericaceae). The name is also sometimes applied to a stiff-leaved fern. Chamaedaphne calyculata occurs in Arctic regions and in North America as far south as Georgia. It forms large beds at the edges of swamps and boggy meadows. The plant grows to about 1.2 m (4 feet) in height. The brownish, alternate leaves, 15 cm (about 0.52 inches) long, are oblong or lance-shaped. The flowers, which often appear while snow is still on the ground, are small, white, and bell-shaped. They are borne in a leafy, terminal cluster. The fruit is a small, dry pod.