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Danish scurvygrass

Scientific Name: Cochlearia groenlandica

Family: Brassicaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Forb/herb

Duration: Annual, Biennial, Perennial

Other Names:

       

Danish Scurvygrass (Cochlearia danica)

Cochlearia danica, commonly known as Danish Scurvygrass or Early Scurvy-grass, is a flowering plant belonging to the Brassicaceae (Mustard) family. The common name "Scurvygrass" arises from the plant's high vitamin C content, historically used to combat scurvy.

Considerations for Pets

  • Mentioned as growing along roadsides, an area commonly walked by pets.
  • Small size might make it attractive for curious animals.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Cochlearia danica L.
  • Family: Brassicaceae (Cruciferae) (Mustard Family)
  • Rank: Species
  • Synonyms: Cochlearia groenlandica L.

Distribution and Habitat

  • Traditionally a coastal plant found in salt marshes, sea shores, and sand dunes.
  • Has expanded its habitat to inland areas, particularly along roadsides treated with salt for de-icing.
  • Observed in Britain and Devon, as well as near roads such as the A6 near J29 of the M6. Also spotted at a disused brine pit at Stoke Works in Worcestershire.

Ecological Role

  • Salt-tolerant (halophytic) plant, thriving in saline environments.
  • Mentioned as an increasingly common sight along roads due to salt gritting.
  • Classified as an invasive species in some regions, alongside Japanese Knotweed and Floating Pennywort.

Morphological Characteristics

  • Annual plant, growing up to 0.2 meters (8 inches) tall.
  • Low to short growth habit.
  • Basal leaves are long-stalked, rounded to triangular-heart shaped.
  • Upper stem leaves are stalked, with 3 to 7 lobes.
  • Flowers are small, with 4 white or sometimes pale mauve petals, measuring 4-6 mm across.
  • Fruits are 3-5mm (up to 7mm max), ovoidal in shape.

Quirky Facts

  • The text jokes that no one gets excited about hearing about Danish Scurvy Grass.
  • The name "Danish Scurvygrass" is presented as an example of why one shouldn't pay too much attention to common names.

Life Cycle

  • Flowers from May to June.
  • Seeds ripen from June to August.

Further Information

  • Royal Horticultural Society (RHS)
  • NBNSYS0000002854
  • Discover Life