Bladder campion

Scientific Name: Silene vulgaris

Flavour: Bladder campion has a mild, slightly sweet, and nutty flavour. The young leaves can be consumed raw in salads, while the older leaves and stems are often cooked and used as a vegetable.

Growing Season: Bladder campion typically grows from late spring to early autumn, with the peak growth period occurring during the summer months.

Native Region: Bladder campion is native to Europe, including the British Isles, and can be found in various regions worldwide.

Traditional Recipe: Bladder Campion Fritters

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup of Bladder campion leaves and tender stems, washed and patted dry

  • 1 cup of all-purpose flour

  • 1 teaspoon of baking powder

  • 1/2 teaspoon of salt

  • 1/4 teaspoon of ground black pepper

  • 1/2 cup of milk

  • 1 egg

  • Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, and black pepper.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk and egg until well combined.

Gradually add the milk and egg mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until a smooth batter forms.

Gently fold in the Bladder campion leaves and tender stems, ensuring they are well coated with the batter.

Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan or skillet over medium heat.

Drop spoonfuls of the batter mixture into the hot oil, forming small fritters. Cook until golden brown on both sides, flipping them gently with a spatula.

Remove the fritters from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
Serve the Bladder campion fritters hot as a side dish or appetizer.

Health Properties: Bladder campion is a nutrient-rich plant. It contains vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals such as calcium and potassium. Bladder campion also has diuretic properties and has been used in traditional herbal medicine for urinary tract health. As with any foraged or wild plant, it is important to ensure proper identification and gather from clean, uncontaminated areas.

Growing Technique:

Location: Bladder campion prefers sunny or partially shaded areas in the garden. It can tolerate a variety of soil types but prefers well-drained soil.

Planting: Bladder campion can be grown from seeds. Sow the seeds directly in the garden in early spring or early autumn. Lightly press the seeds into the soil and keep them moist until germination occurs.

Maintenance: Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during dry periods. Mulching can help retain moisture and suppress weed growth around the plants.

Pruning: Trim back the Bladder campion plants after flowering to promote bushier growth and potential reblooming.

Self-seeding: Bladder campion readily self-seeds, and new plants may sprout in the vicinity. If you wish to control its spread, remove any unwanted seedlings.

Harvesting: Harvest the young leaves and tender stems of Bladder campion when they are at their most tender, usually in the spring and early summer. Snip or carefully pluck the leaves and stems, leaving some behind for continued growth.