The world of edible wild plants can be confusing, especially when common names overlap. The terms "pennywort" and "navelwort" are prime examples, often used interchangeably but referring to fundamentally different plants. A closer look at their botany, habitat, and nutritional characteristics reveals why proper identification is essential for anyone interested in foraging or herbal medicine.
The Botanical Truth: Are Pennywort and Navelwort the Same?
No, they are not the same plant. The primary source of confusion is the use of the common name "pennywort." This name is applied to several plant species, but the two most commonly discussed in a culinary and nutritional context are:
- Asiatic Pennywort (Centella asiatica): A creeping, perennial herb native to tropical and wetland regions of Asia, Africa, and Australia. It is also known by the names Gotu Kola and Indian Pennywort.
- Navelwort (Umbilicus rupestris): A succulent, perennial flowering plant native to Europe and the Mediterranean. It is also widely known as Wall Pennywort or Penny-pies.
A Tale of Two Families: Crassulaceae vs. Apiaceae
One of the most significant differences between the two plants is their botanical classification. Navelwort belongs to the Crassulaceae, or stonecrop family, which consists of many succulents adapted to arid conditions. This family includes familiar plants like jade plants and sedums. In contrast, Asiatic Pennywort is part of the Apiaceae (or sometimes Araliaceae) family, which includes herbs such as carrots, parsley, and celery. This family distinction explains their different growth habits and nutritional profiles.
Habitat and Appearance: A Visual Comparison
Observing the plants' physical traits and where they grow is a reliable way to tell them apart.
Navelwort (Umbilicus rupestris)
- Habitat: Thrives in rocky, shady environments, often growing out of stone walls, cliffs, and crevices.
- Leaves: Fleshy, succulent, and round with a distinct, navel-like depression in the center where the stem attaches.
- Flowers: Pale, bell-shaped, and greenish-white, hanging downwards from a tall, upright flower spike.
Asiatic Pennywort (Centella asiatica)
- Habitat: Prefers wet, marshy areas and is found in tropical and subtropical climates.
- Leaves: Round or kidney-shaped with scalloped edges, and the stem is typically attached near the center or base of the leaf.
- Flowers: Small, inconspicuous, and clustered together in umbels.
Nutritional and Culinary Differences
While both are edible and offer health benefits, their nutritional composition and traditional culinary uses vary significantly.
- Navelwort: The leaves have a juicy, succulent texture and a mild flavor often compared to salty cucumber. They are typically eaten raw in salads or as a thirst-quenching snack. Nutritionally, it contains beneficial compounds like omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin E, and various polyphenols.
- Asiatic Pennywort: The flavor is more herbaceous and can be slightly bitter or pungent. It's a staple in Asian cuisine, used in salads, soups, and stir-fries. It is a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like iron, calcium, and magnesium.
Navelwort vs. Asiatic Pennywort: A Summary
| Feature | Navelwort (Umbilicus rupestris) | Asiatic Pennywort (Centella asiatica) |
|---|---|---|
| Botanical Family | Crassulaceae (Stonecrop) | Apiaceae/Araliaceae (Carrot/Aralia) |
| Native Habitat | Europe, Mediterranean | Tropical Asia, Africa, Australia |
| Appearance | Fleshy, succulent leaves with a central depression | Thin, round-to-kidney-shaped leaves with scalloped edges |
| Flowers | Bell-shaped, pendulous, on a tall spike | Small, inconspicuous, clustered in umbels |
| Primary Use | Raw in salads, snack | Cooked in Asian cuisine, herbal medicine |
| Flavor | Mild, juicy, salty cucumber-like | Herbaceous, sometimes bitter |
The Verdict: Knowing Your Greens
When adding these plants to your diet, recognizing the specific species is non-negotiable. While both are generally safe for consumption, their distinct nutritional properties mean they offer different benefits. Foraging is also a consideration; navelwort is a European rock dweller, while Asiatic pennywort is a tropical marsh plant. Always confirm identification before consumption, as other unrelated, potentially toxic plants can have similar-looking leaves. Consulting a reliable botanical guide or a foraging expert is highly recommended. Wild Food UK offers excellent resources for identifying wild edibles in the UK, including navelwort.
Conclusion: Navigating Wild Edibles with Confidence
Pennywort and navelwort are not the same; they represent two distinct species with different botanical families, habitats, and culinary uses. While both are valuable wild edibles, understanding their individual characteristics is essential for safe foraging and appreciating their unique contributions to a healthy diet. Whether you are enjoying navelwort's juicy, cucumber-like leaves in a salad or harnessing the medicinal properties of Asiatic pennywort, informed choices lead to the most rewarding nutritional outcomes.
