Mediterranean catchfly (Silene nocturna, Sp. Pl.: 416 (1753))

Family: Caryophyllaceae

Author: L.

Bibliography: Sp. Pl.: 416 (1753)

Year: 1753

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Silene

Vegetable: False

Observations: Macaonesia, Medit. to Arabian Pen.

Description

The Mediterranean catchfly, scientifically known as Silene nocturna, is a charming, flowering plant belonging to the Caryophyllaceae family. First described in the seminal work “Species Plantarum” by Carl Linnaeus in 1753, this species has captivated botanists and plant enthusiasts alike for centuries.

This delicate plant thrives across a geographical range that extends from Macaronesia through the Mediterranean region and all the way to the Arabian Peninsula. In these areas, it has adapted well to various habitats, reflecting its resilience and versatility. Characteristic of the Mediterranean flora, the Mediterranean catchfly has evolved to flourish in the dry, sunny climates typical of these regions, often found in rocky terrains and open woodlands.

The foliage and blooms of Silene nocturna exhibit the typical beauty and intricacy associated with the Caryophyllaceae family. Its inconspicuous flowers open primarily at night, an adaptation that likely aids in pollination by nocturnal insects. This unique flowering behavior adds a layer of mystery to its profile, endearing it further to those who study or cultivate it.

Ecologically, the Mediterranean catchfly plays a role in supporting local biodiversity. Its nighttime blooming pattern provides a crucial nectar source for nocturnal pollinators, thus supporting the intricate web of life in its native ecosystems.

While not as widely known as some other members of the Caryophyllaceae family, Silene nocturna remains an interesting subject for botanical research and conservation efforts. Its widespread distribution suggests it has a strong ecological adaptability, making it a valuable case study for understanding plant resilience in the face of climate change.

In summary, the Mediterranean catchfly is a notable example of botanical elegance and ecological importance. Its widespread presence from Macaronesia to the Arabian Peninsula, combined with its unique nighttime flowering habit, makes it a fascinating specimen within the Caryophyllaceae family.

Common Names

Eng: mediterranean catchfly
Swe: medelhavsglim
En: Mediterranean catchfly
Fr: Silène nocturne
De: Acker-Lichtnelke
He: ציפורנית לילית
It: Silene notturna
Es: Silene nocturna
Sv: Medelhavsglim

Synonyms

• Silene nocturna var. micrantha (Willk.)
• Silene sericea var. apetala ((Willd.) Knoche)
• Silene nocturna var. valdeciliata (Sennen)

Distribution

• Albania (native)
• Algeria (native)
• Baleares (native)
• Canary Is. (native)
• Corse (native)
• Cyprus (native)
• East Aegean Is. (native)
• Egypt (native)
• France (native)
• Greece (native)
• Italy (native)
• Kriti (native)
• Lebanon-Syria (native)
• Libya (native)
• Madeira (native)
• Morocco (native)
• Palestine (native)
• Portugal (native)
• Sardegna (native)
• Saudi Arabia (native)
• Sicilia (native)
• Sinai (native)
• Spain (native)
• Transcaucasus (native)
• Tunisia (native)
• Turkey (native)
• Turkey-in-Europe (native)
• Yugoslavia (native)
• Bermuda (introduced)
• Cape Provinces (introduced)
• Tasmania (introduced)

Additional Images

Flower

Taken May 18, 2021 by françois boca (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 10, 2019 by Denis Bastianelli (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 10, 2019 by Denis Bastianelli (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 29, 2021 by Daniel Barthelemy (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 10, 2019 by Denis Bastianelli (cc-by-sa)

Leaf

Taken Nov 10, 2021 by Kristóf Pálfy (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 29, 2021 by Daniel Barthelemy (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 7, 2022 by Pedro Neves (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 31, 2016 by Tela Botanica − John DE VOS (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 10, 2019 by Denis Bastianelli (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken Jul 21, 2018 by Carlos Villasante (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 29, 2021 by Daniel Barthelemy (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 5, 2018 by Tela Botanica − Genevieve BOTTI (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 5, 2018 by Tela Botanica − Genevieve BOTTI (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 18, 2017 by Tela Botanica − Genevieve BOTTI (cc-by-sa)

Fruit

Taken May 10, 2016 by Tela Botanica − Liliane ROUBAUDI (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 10, 2016 by Tela Botanica − Liliane ROUBAUDI (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 10, 2016 by Tela Botanica − Liliane ROUBAUDI (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 15, 2016 by Tela Botanica − Liliane ROUBAUDI (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 10, 2016 by Tela Botanica − Liliane ROUBAUDI (cc-by-sa)

Bark

Taken May 20, 2013 by Tela Botanica − Paul FABRE (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 20, 2013 by Tela Botanica − Paul FABRE (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 23, 2012 by Tela Botanica − Bertrand BUI (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 23, 2012 by Tela Botanica − Bertrand BUI (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 25, 2014 by Tela Botanica − Jean-Claude CALAIS (cc-by-sa)

Other

Taken May 15, 2018 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)

Taken Jan 1, 1970 by Photoflora – L’Abbé COSTE (©)

Taken May 8, 2012 by Tela Botanica − Liliane Roubaudi (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 8, 2012 by Tela Botanica − Liliane Roubaudi (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 23, 2012 by Tela Botanica − Bertrand BUI (cc-by-sa)

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:157913-1)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/6364078)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Silene nocturna L.)

Specifications

Growth

Ph maximum: 7.0

Ph minimum: 6.5

Light: 8

Atmospheric humidity: 3

Soil nutriments: 6