How to identify Moss campion (Silene acaulis)

How to identify Moss campion (Silene acaulis)

Moss campion, also known as Compass plant

Moss campion is distinguished by its dense, low-growing, cushion or mat-like form, primarily in cool climates. It boasts tiny, lanceolate or linear evergreen leaves that remain vivid green. During the summer, moss campion produces minute, star-shaped flowers, typically pink but sometimes white, with five notched petals. Following flowering, it develops diminutive, three-chambered capsule fruits that release light brown seeds through apical openings bordered by six teeth.

Lifespan: Perennial, Annual, Biennial

Plant Type: Herb

Leaf Type: Evergreen

Quickly Identify Moss campion

Low-growing cushion or mat-like form in cool climates.

Vivid green, tiny, lanceolate or linear evergreen leaves.

Diminutive star-shaped flowers, pink or white, with five notched petals.

Three-chambered capsule fruits releasing light brown seeds through toothed openings.

Basal, opposite, linear leaves densely covered with triangular hairs.

Detailed Traits of Moss campion

Leaf Features

The leaves of moss campion are numerous, basal, and overlap to form a moss-like evergreen mat. They are tiny, linear or lance-shaped, and stalkless, measuring 0.16-0.39 inches (4-10 mm) long and 0.03-0.06 inches (0.8-1.5 mm) wide. The bright green leaves are opposite, linear, and densely covered with triangular hairs. The lower edges of the leaves may be hairless or hairy, enhancing their distinct texture.

Learn About the Leaf Glossary

Flower Features

The flowers of moss campion are star-shaped and can either be solitary or form clusters. Each flower features five petals that are notched at the tip and can measure 8-12 mm (0.3-0.5 inches) in length. The bright pink petals, sometimes appearing in rare white variants, embrace ten prominent stamens. Blooming during the summer, these diminutive flowers create a striking visual effect, making them easily identifiable due to their vibrant color and distinctive shape.

Learn About the Flower Glossary

Stem Features

The stem of moss campion is both erect and horizontal, forming a compact cushion shape. The stems are moderately branched, creating dense, mat-like structures. They vary in color from green to reddish-brown and have a smooth texture. The average thickness of the stem is about 0.1 inches (2.5 mm). This plant's stems are hardy and adaptive, anchoring it effectively to the ground and facilitating its cushion-like growth form.

Learn About the Stem Glossary

Fruit Features

The fruit of moss campion is a diminutive, cylindrical capsule approximately 1 mm (0.04 inches) wide. It comprises three small chambers and is equipped with a distinctive opening mechanism featuring six teeth at the apex. Encased within each chamber are numerous kidney-shaped, light brown seeds that measure around 1 mm across. Upon maturation, the dry fruit capsule dehisces, releasing seeds through these teeth. Wind serves as the primary dispersal agent for these tiny seeds, aiding in the propagation of moss campion.

Learn About the Fruit Glossary

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