Family: Resedaceae
Author: Lag.
Bibliography: Gen. Sp. Pl.: 17 (1816)
Year: 1816
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Reseda
Vegetable: False
Observations: Iberian Pen., Morocco
Description
Mignonette, scientifically known as Reseda media, is a remarkable plant belonging to the Resedaceae family. First described in the botanical work Gen. Sp. Pl.: 17 in 1816 by Lag., this species has established its presence predominantly in the Iberian Peninsula and Morocco.
This plant is cherished for its delicate and ornamental inflorescences, usually composed of small, aromatic flowers that have historically been favored for both their beauty and scent. The foliage of Reseda media is typically green, with leaves varying in shape and size, contributing to the overall attractiveness of the plant.
In its native regions of the Iberian Peninsula and Morocco, Reseda media thrives in environments that provide the ideal balance of sunlight and well-drained soil. The climate of these areas, characterized often by warm temperatures and sporadic rainfall, supports the growth of Mignonette, allowing it to flourish and contribute to the local biodiversity.
Mignonette has also been appreciated beyond its native range, especially for use in gardens and ornamental landscaping. Its versatility and ease of cultivation make it a favorite among horticulturists and garden enthusiasts seeking to add a touch of elegance and fragrance to their green spaces.
In summary, Reseda media or Mignonette is a plant species with a rich botanical history and a geographical presence that highlights its adaptability and appeal. Its charming flowers and strong fragrance continue to make it a beloved choice for cultivation and admiration within and beyond its native habitat.
Common Names
En: Mignonette
Pt: Reseda-brava
Synonyms
- Reseda macrosperma (Rchb.)
- Reseda media var. pennatisecta (Cout.)
- Reseda macrosperma var. subpinnatisecta (Müll.Arg.)
- Reseda phyteuma var. hirsuta (Boiss.)
- Reseda phyteuma subsp. media ((Lag.) Ball)
- Reseda pilosa (Link ex Müll.Arg.)
- Reseda media var. longipes (Pérez Lara)
- Reseda media var. microcarpa (Merino)
- Reseda media var. integrifolia (Cout.)
- Reseda phyteuma var. macrocarpa ((Rchb.) Nyman)
- Reseda media var. intermedia (Merino)
Distribution
- Morocco (native)
- Portugal (native)
- Spain (native)
- Azores (introduced)
- Madeira (introduced)
Additional Images
Flower
Taken Mar 15, 2008 by Photoflora – Jean-Luc TASSET (©)
Taken Feb 15, 2016 by Photoflora – Jean-Luc TASSET (©)
Taken Feb 15, 2006 by Photoflora – Jean-Luc TASSET (©)
Taken Feb 15, 2006 by Photoflora – Jean-Luc TASSET (©)
Taken Feb 15, 2006 by Photoflora – Jean-Luc TASSET (©)
Leaf
Taken Mar 29, 2022 by Toby Cotton (cc-by-sa)
Taken Mar 25, 2021 by Uxeli (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 14, 2021 by Pedroso Rui (cc-by-sa)
Habit
Taken Apr 14, 2021 by Pedroso Rui (cc-by-sa)
Taken Feb 15, 2016 by Photoflora – Jean-Luc TASSET (©)
Taken Feb 15, 2006 by Photoflora – Jean-Luc TASSET (©)
Fruit
Taken Mar 15, 2008 by Photoflora – Jean-Luc TASSET (©)
Taken Feb 15, 2018 by Photoflora – Jean-Luc TASSET (©)
© 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/3916471)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:715544-1)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Reseda media Lag.)
