Ivy-leaved toadflax
Thought to have arrived in England in the 17th century, possibly in an consignment of statues imported from Italy, Ivy-leaved toadflax is now widespread. It is a low growing perennial with small purple flowers, often found on walls or in stony places close to human habitation.
The violet streaks on the top petals of the flowers serve as nectar guides, providing an indication for pollinators.
When in bloom, the flowers exhibit positive phototropism, reaching towards the light to expose themselves to pollinators. After pollination they become negatively phototropic, turning away from the light to push the fruits towards the wall, seeking the darkest place they can find to germinate.
According to Roy Vickery in his book Vickery’s Folk Flora other names for this plant include, Creeping sailor, Lavender-snips and Oxford weed.
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