Smooth sheepsbit (Jasione laevis, Fl. Franç. 2: 3 (1779))

Family: Campanulaceae

Author: Lam.

Bibliography: Fl. Franç. 2: 3 (1779)

Year: 1779

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Jasione

Vegetable: False

Observations: SW. Europe

Description

Smooth Sheepsbit: An Overview

Smooth sheepsbit, scientifically known as Jasione laevis, is a charming and notable member of the Campanulaceae family. It was first described in 1779, as cited in Fl. Franç. 2: 3, by the distinguished botanist Lam. This delightful species is native to Southwestern Europe, where it thrives in a variety of habitats, from grassy meadows to rocky hillsides.

Botanical Characteristics

Jasione laevis is recognized for its striking blue flowers, which cluster together in globular inflorescences. These floral spheres are a visual delight, providing a splash of color against the green backdrop of its slender, downy leaves. The plant exudes a certain delicate elegance, with its smooth, often slightly hairy stems growing upright to modest heights.

Habitat and Distribution

Smooth sheepsbit is predominantly found across Southwestern Europe. This region’s mild climate and diverse landscapes offer an ideal environment for the plant’s growth. Habitats such as sunny meadows, open woods, and stony, calcareous soils are particularly favorable for this species.

Ecological Impact and Uses

In the wild, Jasione laevis plays a crucial role in supporting pollinators, including bees and butterflies, which are attracted to its nectar-rich flowers. It is not only a vital component of natural ecosystems but also appreciated in horticulture for its aesthetic appeal and resilience in garden settings.

Cultivation and Care

For those interested in cultivating smooth sheepsbit, it is advisable to mimic its natural growing conditions as closely as possible. Planting in well-drained soil, ensuring ample sunlight, and avoiding overwatering will help in achieving optimal growth. Once established, Jasione laevis requires minimal maintenance, making it a favorite among gardeners who appreciate low-maintenance yet visually appealing plants.

Conclusion

Smooth sheepsbit, or Jasione laevis, is a botanical gem from the Campanulaceae family, treasured for its vibrant blue flowers and adaptability to various habitats. Its historical documentation by Lam. in 1779 underscores its long-standing recognition and value in the field of botany. Whether in the wilds of Southwestern Europe or a cultivated garden, Jasione laevis continues to enchant those who encounter it.

Common Names

Deu: ausdauernde jasione
Swe: franska blåmunkar
En: Smooth Sheepsbit
Ca: Jasíone perenne
Cs: Pavinec vytrvalý
Fi: Etelänmunkki
Fr: Jasione vivace, Jasione lisse, Jasione pérenne
De: Ausdauernde Jasione, Ausdauerndes Sandglöckchen, Ausdauernde Sandrapunzel
It: Vedovella stolonifera
Ru: Букашник многолетний
Sv: Franska blåmunkar
: Smooth sheepsbit

Synonyms

• Jasione pyrenaea var. glabra (Sennen)
• Jasione pyrenaica var. macrocephala (Sennen)
• Jasione pyrenaea var. gracilis (Sennen)
• Jasione pyrenaea var. semiglabra (Sennen)
• Jasione pyrenaea var. hirsuta (Sennen)
• Jasione pyrenaea var. parcepilosa (Sennen)

Distribution

• France (native)
• Portugal (native)
• Spain (native)
• Belgium (introduced)
• Finland (introduced)
• Netherlands (introduced)

Additional Images

Flower

Taken Jul 20, 2021 by Alain Bigou (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 11, 2022 by Genevieve COUSINOU (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 29, 2021 by Alain Bigou (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 29, 2021 by Alain Bigou (cc-by-sa)

Taken Sep 5, 2017 by Ignasi Tejedor (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken Jul 15, 2014 by Tela Botanica − Paul FABRE (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 23, 2014 by Tela Botanica − Sylvain PIRY (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 20, 2021 by Alain Bigou (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 11, 2021 by Alain Bigou (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 29, 2021 by Alain Bigou (cc-by-sa)

Leaf

Taken Jul 28, 2015 by Tela Botanica − David MERCIER (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 10, 2021 by Renaud Brochiero (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 20, 2021 by Alain Bigou (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 11, 2021 by Alain Bigou (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 29, 2021 by Alain Bigou (cc-by-sa)

Other

Taken Jul 15, 2006 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)

Taken Jul 15, 2008 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)

Taken Jul 15, 2006 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)

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

Taken Jun 11, 2012 by Tela Botanica − Ans GORTER (cc-by-sa)

Fruit

Taken Jul 8, 2020 by Malinverno Mario (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 15, 2006 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)

Taken Jul 15, 2006 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)

Taken Jul 15, 2006 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)

Taken Jul 15, 2009 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)

Bark

Taken Jun 13, 2020 by Maria filyra (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 8, 2020 by Marvin Filliat (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 15, 2006 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)

Taken Jul 15, 2014 by Tela Botanica − Paul FABRE (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 11, 2012 by Tela Botanica − Ans GORTER (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)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3165708)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:142668-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Jasione laevis Lam.)

Specifications

Growth

Ph maximum: 5.0

Ph minimum: 4.5

Light: 9

Atmospheric humidity: 6

Bloom months: [‘jul’, ‘aug’]

Soil nutriments: 2