Enchanter’s nightshade Circaea lutetiana
Table of Contents
Enchanter’s nightshade Circaea lutetiana, is a native wildflower that thrives in shade or semi shaded sites such as woodland and hedgerows, especially where soil soil is moist and rich in nutrients.
Plant family: Onagraceae
Aliases: Bindweed nightshade, enchantress nightshade
Flowering period: June – September
Flower colour: White
Preferred soil type: Fertile, moist but well drained
Habitat: Woodland, hedgerows, shaded locations
Status: Common
General information
Enchanter’s nightshade, Circaea lutetiana, belongs to Onagraceae family of plants. It is a perennial plant commonly found in regions of the UK, Europe, North America and Asia. Its enchanting name is derived from Greek mythology, reflecting on the plant’s historical association with magic and witchcraft.
It thrives on moist, well drained sites in woodland, hedgerows, preferring shaded sites over direct sunlight. Its a resilient plant, that has the ability to spread through rhizomes, making it perfectly adapted to its preferred growing conditions. It can become quite widespread in areas where conditions align with its preferred habitat.
Identification
Flowers: The small flowers (about 5mm across) are typically white or sometimes tinged with pink. They have a relative simple structure, that’s comprised of two rounded petals bourn from the center of the flower, that creates an open and inviting appearance.
Leaves: The leaves are opposite and broadly ovate with a somewhat heart-shaped base, often seen with serrated or toothed edges.
Value for wildlife
Despite its small and seemingly inconspicuous flowers, enchanter’s nightshade attracts a variety of pollinators including bees and butterflies.
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