Family: Crassulaceae Genus: Umbilicus
Species: Umbilicus rupestris (Salisb.) Dandy
Common Name(s): navelwort, pennywort, penny-pies, kidneywort, pegagan; (Spanish) ombligo de Venus
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Umbilicus rupestris, commonly known as navelwort, is a perennial plant native to Europe and North Africa that is also found in parts of North America and Asia. Navelwort blooms from late spring to early summer, producing small, star-shaped flowers in a rosette formation that range in color from white to pink.273 The leaves have a shallow central depression, resembling a navel – hence the name navelwort.274
Traditional Medicine
Navelwort leaves have mainly been used against inflammation and irritation of the skin, to treat furuncles (boils), disinfect wounds, and to heal burns.275 One of its most common uses involved removing the skin from the top of the leaf and plastering it against the wound to heal it, thus serving as a band-aid.276 This plant also has been used on animals, externally to treat wounds and orally to control diarrhea, fever, and intoxications, and as an antiparasitic in hens.277
Gastronomy
The leaves of navelwort taste slightly sour, similar to sorrel or lemon, which makes them a popular ingredient in traditional Mediterranean and Middle Eastern dishes. The leaves are often boiled or sauteed and used as a vegetable, or added to salads, soups or stew. It can also be used as a garnish to add a pop of color and flavor to a dish. The leaves are a good source of nutrients and bioactive compounds, such as omega-3 fatty acids, organic acids, vitamin E (tocopherols), and phenolic compounds, mainly flavonoids.278, 279, 280
Ecology
Navelwort is adapted to rocky habitats, such as cliffs, walls, and rocky outcrops, often growing in crevices and fissures where other plants may struggle to survive. Their root system helps stabilize soil in rocky areas, preventing erosion. They can contribute to overall biodiversity by providing habitat and food for various insects, such as bees and butterflies, which are attracted to its flowers. Additionally, the presence of navelwort in rocky habitats can create microhabitats that support a variety of plant and animal species adapted to similar conditions.281