The Sapphire of Limestone Cliffs

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Scientific name:

Lomelosia graminifolia (L.) Greuter & Burdet subsp. graminifolia

Common name:

Grass-leaved Scabious

Family:

Caprifoliaceae

Biological form:

Camefita suffruticosa

Characteristics

Habit: Perennial tufted plant 20–40 cm. Leaves narrow, grass-like. Flowers: Pale blue or violet heads. Fruits: Achenes. Flowering: May–August.

Distribution and habitat

Chorological type: South-European orophyte. Distribution in Italy: Alps and northern Apennines. Habitat: Rocky slopes and dry grasslands up to 1300 m.

Etymology

Generic name (Lomelosia): Refers to margin of involucre. Specific name (graminifolia): Grass-like leaves.

Uses and properties

No significant medicinal use.

Curiosities

Indicator of dry calcareous habitats.