Family: Molluginaceae
Mollugo cerviana
Citation:
Ser. in DC., Prod. 1:392 (1824).
Synonymy: Pharnaceum cervianum L., Sp. Pl. 272 (1753).
Common name: Wire-stem chickweed.
Description:
A delicate little herb, resembling a Sagina, 4-8 cm high; stems, branches and leaves all apparently whorled, the stems and branches capillary; leaves linear, 5-10 mm long.
Flowers on long capillary peduncles; perianth-segments 2-3 mm long, obtuse.
Capsule ovoid, enclosed in the perianth, opening in 3 valves; seeds minute, numerous.
Published illustration:
Cunningham et al. (1982) Plants of western New South Wales, p. 295.
Distribution:
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Native throughout the warmer parts of the world.
W.Aust.; N.T.; Qld; N.S.W.; Tas.
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Conservation status:
native
Flowering time: throughout the year.
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SA Distribution Map based
on current data relating to
specimens held in the
State Herbarium of South Australia
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Biology:
No text
Taxonomic notes:
This species is often confused with species of Caryophyllaceae but, in fruit, can be recognised by the 3-celled capsule of which the valves when open retain the remains of a septum down their middle.
Author:
Not yet available
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