Family: Caryophyllaceae Genus: Silene
Species: Silene latifolia Poir
Common Name(s): white campion, bladder campion, white cockle, evening catchfly, evening lychnis; (Spanish) barbonesa, asubios, cabaciñas, colleja; (Galicia) cabaciñas
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Silene latifolia, commonly known as white campion, is a beautiful flowering plant that extends across much of Europe, Asia, North Africa and North America, and has been widely naturalized in other parts of the world (including Alaska and Greenland).199 Like several plant species in the Silene genus, this plant is a “catchfly”- referring to the sticky glandular secretions found on the plant’s flowers and sometimes on its leaves and stems. White campion is tolerant to poor soil, partial shade, and even salt-spray near the coast, which allows it to grow in a variety of habitats, including meadows, pastures, roadsides, and along riverbanks. Because of its tendency to grow in the grassy areas of graveyards it is also known as the “Flower of the Dead” or the “Grave Flower.”200
Traditional Medicine
This plant has been used as a sedative and to treat insomnia, anxiety, and digestive problems. The plant’s leaves and stems have also been used to soothe skin irritations and wounds.201 It has also been used as an anti-inflammatory, a diuretic, and a treatment for respiratory health and menstrual disorders.202
Cultural Significance
Due to its delicate beauty and unique characteristics, white campion has been included in literature, art, and folklore for centuries, and has been mentioned in works by Shakespeare and other famous authors. It is also a popular subject for photographers.203
Gastronomy
Although the leaves and stems of the white champion are edible, they have a slightly bitter taste and are typically consumed in soups, stews, and salads. During the reign of Elizabeth I, white champion was made into a soothing drink, combined with sugar and wine.204
Other Colorful Uses
In the past, white campion was used for washing clothes and hair, and even to treat warts and corns. The roots are known to be toxic to the larvae of mosquitoes and are used as a deterrent in areas where mosquitoes are problematic. Some people still boil up the roots to make soap.205