Family: Ranunculaceae
Author: L.
Bibliography: Sp. Pl.: 534 (1753)
Year: 1753
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Nigella
Vegetable: False
Observations: Europe to Caucasus
Description
Black-bread-weed: A Hidden Gem in the World of Flora
Black-bread-weed, scientifically known as Nigella arvensis, is an intriguing and lesser-known plant species that belongs to the Ranunculaceae family. First described by the renowned botanist Carl Linnaeus in 1753, this plant has captivated the interest of botanists and plant enthusiasts for centuries. Its origins trace back to the vast and varied landscapes of Europe extending to the Caucasus region, where it has silently flourished amid other wild flora.
Botanical Characteristics
Nigella arvensis exhibits a distinct and delicate beauty that is characteristic of many members of the Ranunculaceae family. It is an annual herbaceous plant, which means it completes its life cycle within a single growing season. The plant typically features finely divided, feathery leaves and produces vibrant blooms, showcasing a range of colors that might include soft blues and purples. These delicate flowers are a hallmark of the plant’s subtle elegance.
One of the standout features of Black-bread-weed is its unique seed capsules. These capsules are often inflated and exhibit an intricate design, somewhat resembling ancient bread molds, which may be a historical basis for the common name, Black-bread-weed.
Habitat and Distribution
Black-bread-weed has a widespread presence across Europe, extending its reach into the Caucasus region. It thrives in a variety of habitats, often found in disturbed soils, agricultural fields, and other open areas where it can grow without much competition from larger, more dominant plant species. Its adaptability to different environmental conditions is noteworthy, making it a resilient species within its native range.
Traditional and Modern Uses
Throughout history, Nigella arvensis has been observed for its potential medicinal properties, although it has not been as extensively studied as some of its botanical relatives. In traditional folklore, various parts of the plant were sometimes used for treating minor ailments, although it’s always advisable to consult professional sources before considering any medicinal use.
In modern times, Black-bread-weed is primarily appreciated for its ornamental value. Gardeners and landscapers might utilize it to add a touch of natural beauty to wildflower meadows and garden beds. Its unique aesthetic appeal, coupled with its relatively easy cultivation, makes it a charming addition to any botanical collection.
Conservation and Ecological Importance
As with many wild plants, the conservation status of Nigella arvensis is an important consideration. Preserving its natural habitats in Europe and the Caucasus is vital for ensuring that this unique species continues to thrive. Promoting awareness about the ecological importance of maintaining biodiversity can help safeguard plants like the Black-bread-weed from the threats posed by urbanization and intensive agriculture.
In summary, Black-bread-weed (Nigella arvensis) stands out as a botanical treasure with its delicate beauty, historical significance, and adaptability. Whether valued for its ornamental charm, its place in traditional uses, or its ecological role, this species remains a point of intrigue and admiration in the world of flora.
Common Names
Deu: acker-schwarzkümmel, ackerschwarzkümmel
Dan: ager-sortkommen
Eng: black-bread-weed, nigella, wild fennel, wild fennel-flower
Fra: nigelle des champs
Nld: wilde nigelle
Swe: åkernigella
Lat: nigella
En: Black-bread-weed, Nigella, Wild fennel, Black bread weed, Field fennel flower, Wild fennel-flower
Be: Чарнушка палявая
Bg: Полска челебитка
Zh: 野黑种草
Cs: Černucha rolní
Da: Ager-sortkommen
Nl: Wilde nigelle
Et: Põld-mustköömen
Fi: Rikkaneito
Fr: Nigelle des champs, Nigelle bâtarde
De: Acker-Schwarzkümmel, Ackerschwarzkümmel, Wilder Schwarzkümmel
He: קצח השדה
It: Damigella campestre
La: Nigella
Pl: Czarnuszka polna
Ru: Чернушка полевая
Sv: Åkernigella
Uk: Чорнушка польова
Synonyms
Distribution
- Albania (native)
- Algeria (native)
- Austria (native)
- Belarus (native)
- Belgium (native)
- Bulgaria (native)
- Cyprus (native)
- Czechoslovakia (native)
- East Aegean Is. (native)
- Egypt (native)
- France (native)
- Germany (native)
- Greece (native)
- Hungary (native)
- Iran (native)
- Iraq (native)
- Italy (native)
- Krym (native)
- Lebanon-Syria (native)
- Libya (native)
- Morocco (native)
- North Caucasus (native)
- Palestine (native)
- Poland (native)
- Romania (native)
- Sardegna (native)
- Sicilia (native)
- South European Russi (native)
- Transcaucasus (native)
- Tunisia (native)
- Turkey (native)
- Turkey-in-Europe (native)
- Ukraine (native)
- Yugoslavia (native)
- Netherlands (introduced)
Additional Images
Flower
Taken Aug 8, 2020 by Aneta Mazancova (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 12, 2018 by Pep Secem (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 19, 2022 by Marc Henke (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 30, 2018 by hobbygaertner (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 9, 2018 by Mercé Camarasa (cc-by-sa)
Leaf
Taken Aug 29, 2021 by Alexandre Labbe (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 21, 2022 by caven (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 16, 2022 by español Pilar (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 8, 2011 by Tela Botanica − liliane pessotto (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 12, 2018 by Pep Secem (cc-by-sa)
Fruit
Taken Sep 13, 2011 by Tela Botanica − liliane pessotto (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 13, 2018 by Pep Secem (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 13, 2018 by Pep Secem (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 12, 2018 by Pep Secem (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 13, 2018 by Pep Secem (cc-by-sa)
Habit
Taken Mar 6, 2020 by Emir Hedda (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 8, 2022 by Michal Svit (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 28, 2021 by Oiselet (cc-by-sa)
Taken Mar 30, 2009 by Tela Botanica − liliane pessotto (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 4, 2018 by المغرب نباتات (cc-by-sa)
Other
Taken Aug 15, 2013 by Photoflora – Jean-Luc TASSET (©)
Taken Jan 1, 1970 by Photoflora – L’Abbé COSTE (©)
Taken Jan 1, 1800 by Tela Botanica − Daniel MATHIEU (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 31, 1865 by Tela Botanica − Herbier PONTARLIER-MARICHAL (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 22, 2021 by m.requena (cc-by-sa)
Bark
Taken Aug 15, 2006 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/7278276)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:711626-1)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Nigella arvensis L.)
Specifications
Growth
Ph maximum: 9.0
Ph minimum: 8.0
Light: 8
Atmospheric humidity: 4
Soil nutriments: 5