Family: Caryophyllaceae
Author: Poir.
Bibliography: Voy. Barbarie 2: 164 (1789)
Year: 1789
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Silene
Vegetable: False
Observations: Medit.
Description
Hairy catchfly, known scientifically as Silene sedoides, is a distinctive and intriguing plant that belongs to the Caryophyllaceae family. This family, widely known for its flowering plants, includes many notable species that thrive in a variety of habitats.
Described in 1789 by the French botanist Poiret in his work “Voyage en Barbarie,” Silene sedoides is meticulously documented, highlighting its significance and place in botanical literature. The reference to Poiret’s exploration in “Voy. Barbarie 2: 164” underlines the plant’s historical and botanical importance.
Native to the Mediterranean region, the hairy catchfly is well-adapted to its environment. The Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters, provides the ideal conditions for this species. The resilient nature of Silene sedoides allows it to flourish amidst rocky terrains and coastal landscapes, where many other plants might struggle to survive.
The plant’s common name, hairy catchfly, derives from its unique appearance. It features delicate, yet robust, stems covered in fine, hair-like structures. These hairs are not merely ornamental; they play a crucial role in the plant’s survival and reproductive strategies. Interestingly, the sticky nature of these hairs allows the plant to trap small insects, which may deter herbivores or possibly assist in its nutrient acquisition.
The flowers of Silene sedoides are another remarkable aspect of this species. They exhibit a vibrant array of colors from pale pink to deep magenta, attracting a variety of pollinators despite their somewhat diminutive size. The intricate petals are often fused at the base, creating a tubular shape that enhances the plant’s allure and ecological interactions.
In summary, Silene sedoides, or hairy catchfly, is a fascinating member of the Caryophyllaceae family, distinguished by its historical botanical documentation, Mediterranean habitat, and unique physical characteristics. Its adaptability and specialized features exemplify the intricate relationships between plants and their environments.
Common Names
En: Hairy Catchfly
Ar: سيلينة ناعمة
Ca: Silene sedoide
Fr: Silène faux orpin, Silène faux sédum
He: ציפורנית זעירה
It: Silene con foglie di Sedum
: Hairy catchfly
Synonyms
Distribution
- Albania (native)
- Algeria (native)
- Baleares (native)
- Cyprus (native)
- East Aegean Is. (native)
- France (native)
- Greece (native)
- Italy (native)
- Kriti (native)
- Lebanon-Syria (native)
- Libya (native)
- Palestine (native)
- Sardegna (native)
- Sicilia (native)
- Spain (native)
- Tunisia (native)
- Turkey (native)
- Yugoslavia (native)
Additional Images
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Habit
Taken Mar 4, 2015 by Tela Botanica − Geneviève Botti (cc-by-sa)
Taken Mar 4, 2015 by Tela Botanica − Geneviève Botti (cc-by-sa)
Taken Mar 4, 2015 by Tela Botanica − Geneviève Botti (cc-by-sa)
Taken Mar 4, 2015 by Tela Botanica − Geneviève Botti (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 28, 2013 by Tela Botanica − Geneviève Botti (cc-by-sa)
Other
Taken Apr 15, 2001 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)
Taken May 15, 2010 by Photoflora – Jean-Luc TASSET (©)
Taken May 15, 2010 by Photoflora – Jean-Luc TASSET (©)
Taken May 15, 2013 by Photoflora – Jean-Luc TASSET (©)
Taken Jan 1, 1970 by Photoflora – L’Abbé COSTE (©)
Flower
Taken Jun 2, 2015 by Tela Botanica − Liliane ROUBAUDI (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 2, 2015 by Tela Botanica − Liliane ROUBAUDI (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 2, 2015 by Tela Botanica − Liliane ROUBAUDI (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 8, 2017 by Tela Botanica − Genevieve BOTTI (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 8, 2017 by Tela Botanica − Genevieve BOTTI (cc-by-sa)
Leaf
Taken May 2, 2008 by Tela Botanica − Liliane Roubaudi (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 2, 2008 by Tela Botanica − Liliane Roubaudi (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 2, 2008 by Tela Botanica − Liliane Roubaudi (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 2, 2008 by Tela Botanica − Liliane Roubaudi (cc-by-sa)
Taken Mar 24, 2022 by Louis Aureglia (cc-by-sa)
Fruit
Taken Oct 15, 2018 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)
Taken Jun 2, 2015 by Tela Botanica − Liliane ROUBAUDI (cc-by-sa)
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/8312906)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:60453465-2)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Silene sedoides Poir.)
Specifications
Growth
Ph maximum: 8.0
Ph minimum: 7.5
Light: 9
Atmospheric humidity: 5
Soil nutriments: 6
Soil salinity: 5