There are two times of the year when the Yellow Archangel (๐ฟ๐๐๐๐ข๐ ๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐, Lamier jaune, Gele dovenetel) is most evident on the Forest floor, by the side of paths enjoying the increased light levels to be found there. In spring, before the canopy overhead closes, its yellow, hooded flowers are most distinctive, calling early pollinators to feast. But now it is equally visible, in a more muted way.
Being wintergreen it exploits the bare beech branches, continuing to photosynthesise in the pale wintry light. Those silvery markings are part of its game plan, reflecting the light deeper into the leaf tissue, squeezing out the last few drops of energy from the sun.
The temporary leaves also provide a haven from frost for invertebrates and vertebrates alike, spiders, voles and young amphibians before being replaced soon after flowering.