The Blue Carpet of the Mountain

Globularia cordifolia L.
Scientific name:
Globularia cordifolia L.
Common name:
Heart-leaved Globularia
Family:
Plantaginaceae
Biological form:
Camefita reptante

Characteristics

Habit: Creeping dwarf shrub with evergreen leaves forming mats. Leaves small, spatulate. Flowers: Blue-violet globular heads. Fruits: Achenes. Flowering: May–July.

Distribution and habitat

Chorological type: South-European orophyte. Distribution in Italy: Northern and central Italy. Habitat: Rocky slopes and alpine meadows, 200–2600 m.

Etymology

Generic name (Globularia): From Latin globus (sphere). Specific name (cordifolia): Refers to heart-shaped leaves.

Uses and properties

Medicinal but toxic plant.