Family: Apiaceae
Author: Lam.
Bibliography: Encycl. 4: 754 (1798)
Year: 1798
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Eryngium
Vegetable: False
Observations: E. Medit. to W. Iran
Description
Eryngo, known scientifically as Eryngium creticum, is a remarkable plant species belonging to the Apiaceae family. Native to regions stretching from the Eastern Mediterranean to Western Iran, Eryngo has captured the attention of botanists and plant enthusiasts alike with its distinct appearance and ecological significance. This species was first meticulously classified and described in the year 1798 by the notable botanist Jean-Baptiste Lamarck, as documented in the fourth volume of the notable reference work “Encyclopédie Méthodique Botanique.”
The Eryngium creticum is known for its hardy nature and unique morphology. Characterized by its striking spiny leaves and globular flower heads, this plant often stands out in its natural habitat. The robust, thistle-like structure of Eryngo can diminish grazing pressures by herbivores, helping to ensure its survival in various environments. As a member of the Apiaceae family, Eryngo shares many familial traits with other well-known plants, such as carrots, celery, and parsley, but its distinctive features set it apart within this diverse group.
Furthermore, Eryngium creticum thrives in a variety of soil types, often found in rocky and sandy terrains where other plant species may struggle to survive. Its adaptability and resilience make it a critical component of its native ecosystems, contributing to the biodiversity and stability of these areas.
This intriguing plant not only adds to the floral diversity of its native regions but also has potential applications in horticulture and traditional medicine. Due to its striking appearance, Eryngo is sometimes cultivated for ornamental purposes in gardens and landscapes designed to mirror its natural rugged beauty. Additionally, various cultures have explored the use of Eryngium species in folk remedies, although further scientific research is needed to fully understand the potential medicinal properties of Eryngium creticum specifically.
As you explore the captivating world of Eryngo, it is essential to appreciate both its aesthetic qualities and its role within its ecosystem. Eryngium creticum stands as a testament to nature’s ability to adapt and flourish in diverse environments, making it an enduring subject of study and admiration in the botanical community.
Common Names
Eng: cretan eryngo, eryngo
Deu: kretische mannstreu
En: Eryngo, Cretan Eryngo
Ar: قرصعنة كريتية
De: Kretische Mannstreu
He: חרחבינה מכחילה
It: Calcatreppola di Creta
Pl: Mikołajek kreteński
Synonyms
- Eryngium syriacum (Lam.)
- Eryngium cyaneum (Sm.)
Distribution
- Albania (native)
- Bulgaria (native)
- Cyprus (native)
- East Aegean Is. (native)
- Egypt (native)
- Greece (native)
- Iran (native)
- Iraq (native)
- Italy (native)
- Kriti (native)
- Lebanon-Syria (native)
- Palestine (native)
- Sinai (native)
- Turkey (native)
- Turkey-in-Europe (native)
- Yugoslavia (native)
- France (introduced)
Additional Images
Flower
Taken Jul 3, 2019 by Handal Amir (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 10, 2021 by Mamen Spain (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 4, 2022 by boujemaa chahboun (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 7, 2020 by Philip Good (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 11, 2020 by Tyler Ferdinand (cc-by-sa)
Leaf
Taken Jun 22, 2021 by A. G. M. (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 22, 2021 by A. G. M. (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 14, 2020 by Shlomit grossman (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 17, 2020 by mounir hentati (cc-by-sa)
Taken Sep 15, 2022 by jeremie crespin (cc-by-sa)
Bark
Taken Jun 12, 2022 by Susan Vargas (cc-by-sa)
Habit
Taken Apr 15, 2018 by Tela Botanica − Liliane ROUBAUDI (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 15, 2018 by Tela Botanica − Liliane ROUBAUDI (cc-by-sa)
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/8041189)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:841737-1)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Eryngium creticum Lam.)