UK Flowers: Herbs, Shrubs, Vines & Trees
UK Flowers

UK Squinancywort

Herb Icon Naturalized Flower     First Aid Symbol 
Image of Squinancywort
Asperula cynanchica
Family: Rubiaceae

Flower Properties

Property Value
English Name Squinancywort
Scientific Name Asperula cynanchica
MainColor White
PlantType Herb Icon Herb
Distribution Naturalized Flower Naturalized
Season Found June (Jun - Sep)
ImageUrl Asperula-001
Photographer DP
Location Found Ragpits
Country Found UK
Last Updated 12 September 2026
Photo Quality B

Flower Details

Description

Squinancywort is a perennial herb with delicate, slender stems and small, pink to white star-shaped flowers. The leaves are narrow and arranged in whorls along the stem, giving a distinctive appearance. It typically blooms from June to September.

Distribution

This species is native to Europe and can be found in dry grasslands, chalky soils, and limestone regions. It is widespread across the UK, particularly in southern areas.

Medicinal/Other Uses First Aid Symbol

✅ Historically used for treating sore throats and quinsy, hence the name 'squinancywort'. It was believed to have anti-inflammatory properties.

Edibility

Inedible - there are no known edible uses for this plant.

Human Toxicity
Non_Toxic

Non Toxic - no adverse effects reported from handling or accidental ingestion.

Pet Toxicity Pet Toxicity

Non Toxic - safe for cats, dogs, and other pets, with no known toxic effects.

Active Compounds

Asperuloside, scopoletin, coumarin.

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