Bladder campion Silene vulgaris
Table of Contents
Bladder campion takes its name from its bulging Calyx (the inflated bladder) that sits behind the five-petalled white – pink flowers. Also known as catchfly, cowbell and maiden’s tears, this wildflowers thrives on chalky, free draining sites.
Plant family: Caryophyllaceae
Aliases: Cowbell, Maiden’s tears, Catchfly
Flowering period: May – September
Flower colour: White
Preferred soil type: Loam, calcareous
Habitat: Grassland, meadows, roadside verges
Status: Common
General information
Bladder campion is a common, perennial wildflower, frequently found growing in grassy places, such as hedgerows, roadside verges, open woodland and meadows. Growing up to a metre in height it prefers moist but free draining, calcareous soils that receive ample sun light.
During the summer months bladder campion is often seen covered in a white frothy foam commonly known as ‘cuckoo spit’ It is sometimes confused with white campion, the flowers are similar, but they easily identified as the bulging calyx is absent on white campion.
Identification
Flowers: An easy plant to identify with its unusual balloon ‘like’ bulge that sits to the rear of the 5 white – pink petals, which are deeply notched. The drooping flowers measure 25 – 35mm in diameter, appearing from May to September.
Leaves: The greyish leaves are alternate, oval-lanceolate and pointed, sometimes with scalloped edges. The leaves are hairless unlike white campion which are hairy.
Value for wildlife
Bladder campion attracts bees, butterflies and hoverflies that come to feed on its rich source of nectar. It’s also a favourite of the red-and-black froghopper (Cercopis vulnerata), that uses this wildflower as a food plant, as it wraps itself in the ‘cuckoo’ spit.
Uses for bladder campion
Bladder campion has some medicinal properties and has been used as an emollient and can be used when bathing to treat skin conditions.
It is also an edible plant. The young shoots and leaves can be eaten, either raw or cooked and have a pea ‘like’ flavour, although slightly bitter. They are often used in salads, the older leaves are usually cooked and can be used stews and soups. The root has also been used as a soap substitute for washing clothes and other fabrics.
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