Family: Caryophyllaceae
Author: Guss.
Bibliography: Fl. Sicul. Prodr., Suppl.: 137 (1832)
Year: 1832
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Cerastium
Vegetable: False
Observations: W. & C. Medit.
Description
Dry chickweed, scientifically known as Cerastium siculum, is a flowering plant belonging to the Caryophyllaceae family. This family is distinguished by its diverse array of herbaceous plants, often characterized by their simple leaves and five-petaled flowers. Cerastium siculum, in particular, contributes to the rich tapestry of Mediterranean flora, thriving in the warm and temperate climates of the Western and Central Mediterranean regions.
First described by the botanist Guss in 1832 in the work “Florae Siculae Prodromus,” this plant has etched its name in botanical history. The meticulous documentation captures the essence of dry chickweed, detailing its habitat and characteristics.
The delicate blossoms of Cerastium siculum often draw the attention of nature enthusiasts and botanists alike. The plant features small, star-shaped flowers, typically white, that contrast against its green foliage. Its understated beauty belies its resilience, as it is well-adapted to the Mediterranean’s dry and often challenging environment.
Beyond its visual appeal, dry chickweed plays a role in its ecosystem, supporting local biodiversity. Its presence contributes to the habitat needs of various insects, providing both a food source and a setting for pollination activities.
Cerastium siculum is a testament to the intricate and interconnected web of life that makes up the Mediterranean biome. Its study and observation continue to enrich the understanding of plant adaptations and the ecological significance of native species within their natural habitats.
Common Names
Deu: sizilianisches hornkraut
Eng: dry chickweed
En: Dry chickweed
Fr: Céraiste de Sicile
De: Sizilianisches Hornkraut
It: Peverina siciliana
Synonyms
- Cerastium semidecandrum subsp. densiflorum ((Guss.) Arcang.)
- Cerastium semidecandrum subsp. siculum ((Guss.) Arcang.)
- Cerastium aggregatum (Durand ex Brign.)
- Cerastium pumilum subsp. siculum ((Guss.) Maire)
Distribution
- Algeria (native)
- Baleares (native)
- Corse (native)
- France (native)
- Italy (native)
- Libya (native)
- Morocco (native)
- Sardegna (native)
- Sicilia (native)
Additional Images
Flower
Taken Apr 22, 2017 by Tela Botanica − Genevieve BOTTI (cc-by-sa)
Habit
Taken Apr 22, 2017 by Tela Botanica − Genevieve BOTTI (cc-by-sa)
Other
Taken Jan 1, 1970 by Photoflora – L’Abbé COSTE (©)
© 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/3085474)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:152633-1)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Cerastium siculum Guss.)
Specifications
Growth
Bloom months: [‘apr’, ‘may’]
