Marsh Cinquefoil
Comarum palustre
Marsh Cinquefoil is a perennial herbaceous plant typical of transition mires, fens, and terrestrialization zones. It develops creeping rhizomes that are woody at the base, which help stabilize the substrate. The plant is characterized by its dark purple-red, star-shaped flowers and pinnate leaves. It is a key component of quaking bog communities and prefers acidic, wet habitats.
Details
Habitat function
Provides cover for aquatic insect larvae and amphibians in shallow water zones.
Nutrient uptake
Absorbs nutrients directly from the water-saturated substrate and contributes to the consolidation of mud.
Food source for
Nectar and pollen source for bumblebees, bees, hoverflies, and various beetle species.
Human use
Formerly used as a medicinal plant (due to tannins for inflammation) and for tanning leather.
Ecology
Ecological role
Pioneer species in terrestrialization zones, contributing significantly to peat formation and the stability of quaking bogs.
Competitor species
Sensitive to competition from tall species like common reed under increasing eutrophication.
Ecosystem service
Carbon sequestration through peat formation, shore protection, provision of nectar for insects.
Threats
Drainage of bog habitats, nitrogen input (eutrophication), destruction of riparian buffer zones.
Scientific profile
Profile
Reproduction
Generative via seeds (achenes) dispersed by water, and vegetative via long-creeping, woody rhizomes that can form dense stands.
Protection & threats
Main threats
Drainage of bogs and wet meadows, eutrophication of nutrient-poor sites, peat extraction, and abandonment of extensive management of litter meadows.