Caryophyllaceae, the pink family.
Description:
Plant:
Erect, slightly hairy plant 6"-24" high with narrow leaves and small clusters of
bright pink, white-spotted flowers. Perennial.
Flowers:
Bright pink with small white spots, about 1/2" wide, five oval petals,
five acutely pointed sepals, subtended by pointed bracts.
Flowers in a tight cluster ([[cyme]]) opening a few at a time.
Leaves:
Opposite, linear, 1"-4" long, basal leaves slightly broader than stem leaves.
Fruit:
A four-valved capsule.
Blooming:
June-September
Habitat:
Weedy spots, meadows.
Comments:
The common name of this European introduction refers to Deptford England, now part of
London, where the flower was supposedly once abundant.
Where to find it:
Along the wood boundary on the east edge of the pond running south of the shelter; also
In the upper meadow near the forest trail exit.