Family: Caryophyllaceae Genus: Silene  

Species: Silene nutans L.

Common Name(s): Nottingham catchfly, white campion, Eurasian catchfly; (Spanish) conejera cabizbaja

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Silene nutans, also known as Nottingham catchfly, is a flowering plant in the carnation family. It is native to England, Europe and Asia, and has been introduced to other parts of the world. It grows well in a variety of habitats, including fields, gardens, waste areas, and disturbed areas, and is sometimes considered an invasive weed. One of the most striking features of the Nottingham catchfly is its delicate flowers, which are characterized by their long, slender stems and pink or reddish-pink petals. The flowers are held on spikes that emerge from the plant’s rosette of leaves and are held in a nodding position.

Etymology

“Catchfly” refers to various flowering plants in the genus Silene, particularly those with sticky stems that trap small insects, such as flies and gnats that come into contact with them. While this is not a deliberate predatory behavior like that of carnivorous plants, it can be an effective way for the plant to deter herbivores or protect itself from certain pests.240

Traditional Medicine

While specific information about the traditional medicinal uses of Nottingham catchfly (Silene nutans) is limited, some species within the Silene genus have been used in traditional herbal medicine for treating ailments such as gastrointestinal issues, respiratory problems, and skin conditions.241

Ecology

This species is known for its ability to attract a variety of pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and moths. During the day, the flowers are often closed. They open during the night, producing a strong, sweet scent that attracts pollinators such as the Coleophora galbulipennella moth.242 After pollination, the plant produces small, dry seed capsules containing numerous seeds. These seeds are dispersed by wind or may adhere to passing animals.