Broad-leaved sea-lavender (Limonium auriculae-ursifolium, List Brit. Pl., ed. 2: 77 (1928))

Family: Plumbaginaceae

Author: (Pourr.) Druce

Bibliography: List Brit. Pl., ed. 2: 77 (1928)

Year: 1928

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Limonium

Vegetable: False

Observations: W. Medit.

Description

The Broad-leaved Sea-lavender, known scientifically as Limonium auriculae-ursifolium, is a remarkable member of the Plumbaginaceae family. First documented in the second edition of “List of British Plants” in 1928 by Druce, who credited Pourret for its initial description, this plant holds a unique place in the botanical world.

This species thrives primarily in the Western Mediterranean region. The environments in this area, characterized by their specific climate and soil conditions, create the ideal habitat for the Broad-leaved Sea-lavender. Its adaptation to these Mediterranean landscapes underscores its evolutionary success.

One of the defining characteristics of Limonium auriculae-ursifolium is its broad leaves, which stand out compared to other sea-lavenders. This physical attribute not only gives the plant its common name but also hints at its resilience and ability to capture sunlight efficiently, vital for photosynthesis. The broad leaves likely play a role in its survival and flourishing in the sometimes harsh Mediterranean conditions.

The Broad-leaved Sea-lavender is a plant that can capture the heart of nature enthusiasts and botanists alike with its intricate beauty and ecological significance. As part of the Plumbaginaceae family, it contributes to the biodiversity and the intricate ecological networks of its native regions. This plant not only adds a splash of color to the Mediterranean flora but also stands as a testament to the adaptability and diversity of plant life across the globe.

Common Names

En: Broad-leaved Sea-lavender, Broad-leaved Sea Lavender
Cy: Lafant Jersey, Lafant-y-Môr Llydanddail

Synonyms

• Statice willdenovii (Poir.)
• Statice lychnidifolia (Girard)
• Statice auriculae-ursifolia (Pourr.)
• Limonium binervosum subsp. lychnidifolium (P.Fourn.)
• Limonium lychnidifolium (Kuntze)

Distribution

• Algeria (native)
• Baleares (native)
• France (native)
• Morocco (native)
• Portugal (native)
• Spain (native)

Additional Images

Leaf

Taken Aug 1, 2020 by Diego Alex (cc-by-sa)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:50882052-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Limonium auriculae-ursifolium (Pourr.) Druce)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/7769122)

Specifications

Growth