Angiosperms (Flowering Plants) • Earth.com

Catchfly

(Silene)

galery
en

Description

Silene is a diverse and widely distributed genus of flowering plants in the family Caryophyllaceae. The genus comprises over 700 species, which are found throughout the world, except in Australia and Antarctica. The genus is named after the mythological Greek god Silenus, who was known for his love of wine and celebrations. The common name of the genus is Catchfly, which refers to the sticky hairs on the stems and leaves of some species, which trap insects that come into contact with them. Taxonomy: The genus Silene belongs to the family Caryophyllaceae, which is a group of flowering plants that includes around 2,200 species. Within the family, Silene belongs to the subfamily Caryophylloideae, which includes several other genera, such as Dianthus, Gypsophila, and Lychnis. The genus Silene is divided into several sections based on morphological characteristics, such as the shape of the leaves and flowers. The sections include the following: Silene: This section includes about 250 species that are distributed throughout the world. These plants have a calyx with 10 veins and a 5-lobed corolla. They are annual or perennial herbs that grow in a wide range of habitats, from deserts to alpine meadows. Physolychnis: This section includes about 150 species that are found in the Northern Hemisphere. These plants have a calyx with 20 veins and a 5-lobed corolla. They are perennial herbs that grow in dry or moist habitats, such as forests and meadows. Behenantha: This section includes about 50 species that are distributed in Europe, Asia, and Africa. These plants have a calyx with 10 veins and a 5-lobed corolla. They are perennial herbs that grow in open or shaded habitats, such as grasslands and woodlands. Melandrium: This section includes about 50 species that are found in Europe and Asia. These plants have a calyx with 10 veins and a 5-lobed corolla. They are annual or perennial herbs that grow in dry or moist habitats, such as rocky slopes and meadows. Description: Silene plants are typically herbaceous perennials or annuals that grow in a variety of habitats, from deserts to alpine meadows. They have simple, opposite or alternate leaves that can be either entire or lobed. The leaves are often covered with glandular hairs that produce a sticky substance that can trap insects. The flowers of Silene plants are usually pink or white and are arranged in a terminal or axillary cyme. The calyx is tubular and has 5 to 20 veins, and the corolla is usually 5-lobed. The stamens are usually 10 in number, and the styles are usually 3. The fruit is a capsule that contains numerous small seeds. Uses: Several species of Silene are used in traditional medicine for their various medicinal properties. For example, Silene vulgaris is used to treat insomnia, anxiety, and nervous tension, while Silene dioica is used to treat menstrual disorders and inflammation. The roots of Silene gallica are used to treat urinary tract infections, and Silene inflata is used to treat respiratory disorders. Several species of Silene are also used as ornamental plants in gardens and parks. Some popular species include Silene coronaria, Silene regia, and Silene uniflora. These plants are valued for their attractive flowers and easy care. Conservation: Several species of Silene are threatened with extinction due to habitat loss, overgrazing, and other human activities.

Taxonomic tree:

Domain:
Kingdom: Plantae
Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order:Caryophyllales
Family:Caryophyllaceae
Genus:Silene
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