The Asphodel is a hardy, herbaceous perennial with star-like white or yellow flowers growing on a single or branching tall spike. As an herb associated with Persephone and Hekate, it is easy to imagine Asphodels as torches, illuminating the way to and from the Underworld with their glow. Existing as they do on the borders and aligned with the dark and unseen realms, the Asphodel is a powerful ally for traversing unknown territories and navigating contradiction.

Like most vines, the Grape is sacred to Dionysos who, among many things, is the god of revelry and credited with bringing wine cultivation to the Greeks. Joyful in its essence, the Grape is a vine of merriment, celebration, and communion. The Grape is also a teacher of fertility, lack of inhibition, and the divine union that results from the dissolving of boundaries.

The Rough Bindweed (also known as Smilax) is a perennial evergreen vine sacred to Dionysos with spines on the stem and bright red berries growing in grape-like clusters. The myth of the problematic love between Smilax and Crocus serves to remind us of the wisdom of not trying to force incompatible bonding. Invite Rough Bindweed into your ceremonies to reestablish boundaries, especially after ecstatic union and joyful communion.