Family: Poaceae
Author: Thunb.
Bibliography: Unknown
Year: Unknown
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Stipa
Vegetable: Unknown
Observations: Unknown
Description
The Mediterranean needlegrass, scientifically known as Stipa capensis, is a member of the Poaceae family, which is commonly referred to as the grass family. This family is notable for its significant ecological and economic importance, encompassing a wide variety of grasses found in various habitats around the world.
Stipa capensis is a characteristic grass of the Mediterranean region, thriving in the temperate climates typical of this area. Its resilient nature allows it to grow in a variety of conditions, adapting well to the seasonal variations in temperature and precipitation. The plant is well adapted to the Mediterranean climate, which is characterized by wet winters and hot, dry summers.
The Mediterranean needlegrass exhibits the typical morphological characteristics of the Stipa genus. It features slender, needle-like leaves that give the plant its common name. These leaves are not only functional in reducing water loss but also play a crucial role in seed dispersal. The seeds of Stipa capensis possess an awn, a specialized structure that twists and turns in response to changes in humidity. This hygroscopic movement helps in anchoring the seeds into the soil, ensuring successful germination and growth.
Though much about its direct ethnobotanical uses and ecological interactions remains unknown, grasses like Stipa capensis are often integral components of their ecosystems. They can provide forage for grazing animals and contribute to soil stability with their root systems, which help prevent erosion. In natural settings, Mediterranean needlegrass can form dense clumps or stands, offering habitat and protection for various forms of wildlife.
This species was first described by the renowned botanist Carl Peter Thunberg, who was instrumental in cataloging numerous plant species during his travels. His contributions to botany are still celebrated today, with many plants, including Stipa capensis, bearing names that recognize his work.
In summary, Mediterranean needlegrass (Stipa capensis) is a valuable species within the Poaceae family, embodying the diverse adaptations grasses have made to thrive in various climates globally. Its complex reproductive strategies and adaptability highlight the evolutionary success of grasses, while its ecological roles underscore its importance in Mediterranean ecosystems.
Common Names
En: Mediterranean needlegrass, Cape ricegrass, Mediterranean Needle-grass
Ar: أبو فاخور, سبط (سَبَطْ)، سبد (سَبَدْ)، سبط (سَبْط)، سفسوف, سبل ابو الحصين (سَبَل أبو الحُصين، سِبِل أبو الحُصين), طره (طِرة)، ضريره (ضْريره، ضِرَيْرَه)
Ca: Rompsac
Fr: Stipe du Cap, Plumet du Cap
He: מלעניאל מצוי
It: Lino delle fate annuale
Cy: Plufwellt Môr y Canoldir
Synonyms
Distribution
Additional Images
Fruit
Taken May 3, 2022 by Diego Alex (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 17, 2009 by Martin Bishop (cc-by-sa)
Taken Sep 21, 2011 by Antoine Foucart (cc-by-sa)
Leaf
Taken May 3, 2022 by Diego Alex (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 23, 2022 by luca gemma (cc-by-sa)
Taken Mar 11, 2022 by Abdul Ghaffar (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 31, 2020 by kenza touzri (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 19, 2019 by Tela Botanica − Patrick Leboulenger (cc-by-sa)
Flower
Taken Apr 15, 2019 by Tela Botanica − Patrick Leboulenger (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 15, 2019 by Tela Botanica − Patrick Leboulenger (cc-by-sa)
Taken Mar 11, 2022 by Abdul Ghaffar (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 10, 2016 by Tela Botanica − Patrick LEBOULENGER (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 13, 2019 by Amoros Laura Amoros (cc-by-sa)
Habit
Taken Apr 17, 2009 by Martin Bishop (cc-by-sa)
Taken Mar 25, 2009 by Antoine Foucart (cc-by-sa)
Taken Mar 11, 2022 by Abdul Ghaffar (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 31, 2020 by kenza touzri (cc-by-sa)
Bark
Taken Mar 11, 2022 by Abdul Ghaffar (cc-by-sa)
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Stipa capensis Thunb.)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/4143591)