Early Scurvy-Grass (Cochlearia Danica)
Our species of the month for February is Early Scurvy-Grass (Cochlearia danica). Also known as Danish scurvy-grass, this small prostrate annual blooms from February to June. The 4-petalled white, sometimes lilac, flowers resemble a smattering of frost against Alderney's coastal landscape.
Sailors returning from long voyages at sea used to consume scurvy-grass in large quantities, with the high vitamin C content warding off the deficiency-derived illness (as the common name suggests)1.
Originally a coastal species, it is now flourishing along roads and motorways in Europe. Its success has been attributed to its tolerance of the salt spread by gritters in winter, with high-speed cars aiding the distribution of its seeds further inland2.
Early scurvy-grass is often the first native flower to bloom on Alderney – If you see any please send us your photos!
1. Magiorkinis et al., Scurvy: Past, present and future. European Journal of Internal Medicine. 2011;22(2):147-52.
2. Danish scurvy grass thrives in gritted road conditions, BBC News Wales, 21 January 2013
Species Details
- Species name
- Cochlearia danica L.
- Common name
- Danish Scurvygrass
- Other common names
- Llwylys Denmarc, Morlwyau Danaidd, Morlwyau Eiddewddail, Morlwyau Glan Môr, Llwylys Llychlyn, Ysgyifi-Lys Llychlyn
- Taxonomy
- Plantae :: Brassicales :: Brassicaceae
- Boundary and linear features (eg hedges, roadsides, walls)
- Supralittoral rock (does not include maritime grassland)
