navelwort

Navelwort is a common name that can refer to several different plants, but most often it denotes Cymbalaria muralis, also known as ivy-leaved toadflax. This small, trailing perennial herb is native to southern Europe and is now naturalized in many other parts of the world, particularly in temperate climates. It is characterized by its rounded, shallowly lobed leaves that resemble a tiny navel, and its delicate, snapdragon-like flowers which are typically pale lilac or white with a yellow throat.

Cymbalaria muralis thrives in damp, shady environments, often found growing in cracks in walls, on rocks, and along mossy banks. Its creeping habit allows it to spread readily, forming mats of foliage that can soften the appearance of stone structures. The plant has a long history of use in traditional medicine, particularly for treating skin ailments and wounds, though scientific evidence supporting these uses is limited. It is generally considered an ornamental plant, appreciated for its resilience and ability to colonize difficult spots.

Another plant sometimes called navelwort is Umbilicus rupestris, also known as pennywort or rock navelwort. This plant is native to the Mediterranean region and the Atlantic islands. It has distinctive succulent, cup-shaped leaves that are attached to the stem at their center, giving rise to the "navel" common name. It produces a tall, slender spike of small, pendulous, greenish-pink flowers. Like Cymbalaria muralis, Umbilicus rupestris also has a history in folk medicine for skin conditions. The specific species referred to as navelwort can vary by region.