Lepnica
Lepnica (commonly known as Catchfly or Campion) is a genus Silene in the Caryophyllaceae family (Carnation family). The name "Catchfly" derives from the sticky substance found on the stems or calyces of many species, which traps small insects.
Description: Lepnica encompasses a diverse range of herbaceous plants, including annuals, biennials, and perennials. They are characterized by opposite, simple leaves and showy flowers with five petals, often deeply notched or fringed. Flower colors range from white and pink to red and purple. The calyx is typically tubular or inflated. Many species are noted for their night-blooming flowers, attracting moths for pollination.
Distribution and Habitat: Lepnica species are found throughout the Northern Hemisphere, particularly in Europe, Asia, and North America. They occupy a variety of habitats, including meadows, grasslands, rocky slopes, and disturbed areas. Some species are adapted to specific soil types or climatic conditions.
Ecology: Lepnica plays a role in supporting various insect pollinators, including moths, butterflies, and bees. The sticky secretions on the stems and calyces may offer some protection against herbivores, although some insects are able to navigate the sticky traps. Certain species are also hosts to specific fungal pathogens.
Cultivation and Uses: Several Silene species are cultivated as ornamental plants in gardens and landscapes for their attractive flowers and tolerance of various growing conditions. Some species are used in traditional medicine for their purported medicinal properties, although scientific evidence supporting these uses is often limited.
Selected Species: (This is a non-exhaustive list)
- Silene alba (White Campion)
- Silene dioica (Red Campion)
- Silene latifolia (White Cockle)
- Silene vulgaris (Bladder Campion)
Conservation: Some Lepnica species are rare or threatened due to habitat loss, invasive species, or over-collection. Conservation efforts are underway to protect these vulnerable plants and their habitats.