Sibthorpia europaea L.

Growth Habit

Sibthorpia europaea is a small, prostrate plant that forms mats of thread-like stems. These stems root as they creep across the ground.

Leaf Characteristics

Its mid-green, hairy leaves are kidney-shaped and deeply notched.

Flower Development

The tiny flowers develop one at a time in leaf axils. They have relatively long stalks and five pinkish corolla lobes, and begin appearing in June.

Species Distribution

This species has a discontinuous distribution across Western Europe and tropical Africa. Confirmed locations include County Kerry in southwestern Ireland, South Wales, Devon, Cornwall, East Sussex, Spain, Portugal, the Azores, Crete, Pelion (Greece), and tropical Africa.

Distribution Origin Hypothesis

This unusual distribution may be the remnants of a species that was more widespread during the Tertiary period.

Habitat Preferences

It typically grows in moist, shady locations, including stream banks, ditch sides, woodland, wet heathland, shady path verges, lawns, and old walls and banks with a thin layer of soil.

Population Status in Ireland

In Ireland, it grows at altitudes up to 515 m (1,690 ft), but its populations appear to be dwindling due to competition from the more aggressive New Zealand willowherb.