As expected this endemic rarity is procumbent, small and easily missed. It also grows near Scleranthus annuus (Annual Knawel) to add to the possible confusion. The flowers are smaller than in Scleranthus perennis ssp perennis (also called Perennial Knawel) and the habit flat to the ground rather than erect.

It had been introduced to this site in an effort to save the species which was decreasing in numbers. The good news is that the introduction has been successful and it has spread even to a site nearby separated by a road (botanists' boots rather than birds perhaps).

In the British Isles Scleranthus perennis ssp prostratus is found on dry sandy habitats only in Norfolk and Suffolk in England and as a rarity is monitored every year. It is by comparison with Scleranthus perennis ssp perennis much commoner and there are large reserves of the plant in the gardens of those who have looked after this plant over the decades. Rabbits love this plant and in both locations (East Anglia and Stanner Rocks in Wales) the plants are susceptible to attack.

Scleranthus perennis ssp prostratus Perennial Knawel Near Santon Downham, Brecks, 4th September 2011 Previous   Next

Scleranthus perennis ssp prostratus Perennial Knawel

Near Santon Downham, Brecks, 4th September 2011

Added on September 6th 2011, updated 1st February 2012