The Evergreen Rock Cushion

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Scientific name:

Draba aizoides L. subsp. aizoides

Common name:

Yellow Whitlowgrass

Family:

Brassicaceae

Biological form:

Emicriptofita rosulata

Characteristics

Habit: Evergreen perennial forming dense cushions. Leaves basal, rigid and linear with stiff marginal bristles. Flowers: Bright yellow, arranged in racemes of 5–20 flowers. Fruits: Elongated siliques with a beak. Flowering: April–June.

Distribution and habitat

Chorological type: European orophyte. Distribution in Italy: Common in Alps and Apennines. Habitat: Rocky slopes, crests and screes on calcareous substrates, 700–2500 m.

Etymology

Generic name (Draba): From Greek drabe, meaning small pungent plant. Specific name (aizoides): Means resembling Aizoon.