Carlina diae

Names and Synonyms

Scientific Names

Accepted name

Synonyms

• Lyrolepis diae

Sources: Wikidata

Taxonomical Classification

This plant, known as Carlina diae, belongs to the kingdom Plantae and the phylum Streptophyta. Within the class Equisetopsida and subclass Magnoliidae, it is classified under the order Asterales and the family Asteraceae. Ultimately, its taxonomic identity is defined by its placement within the genus Carlina.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Distribution

This plant is characterized by a very restricted and specific geographical range. It is found exclusively within the region of Southeastern Europe. More precisely, its habitat is limited to the island of Kriti. Due to this localized existence, it is considered an endemic species of the area. Consequently, its survival depends entirely on the unique environmental conditions of this specific Mediterranean location.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Botanical Identification

Life history

The life history of Carlina diae is characterized by its classification as a hemicryptophyte, a growth form where the perennating buds are located at or just below the soil surface, protected by leaf litter or substrate. Within this life strategy, it functions as a hemicryptophyte, ensuring its survival through seasonal changes by maintaining its vital regenerative organs at the ground level. This life form allows the plant to endure environmental fluctuations while emerging annually to complete its reproductive cycle. As a perennial species, its developmental trajectory involves establishing a robust root system that stores nutrients, enabling it to support the growth of its characteristic inflorescences during the growing season.

Life form :

hemicryptophyte

Morphology

The morphology of Carlina diae is characterized by a robust growth habit, typically appearing as a perennial herb with a specialized ecological adaptation to its environment. In terms of its habitat-related physical presence, the plant is categorized as terrestrial, though it can exist within a spectrum of moisture levels including semiaquatic conditions. The plant features a basal rosette of large, lanceolate leaves that are often leathery in texture, often displaying a distinct midrib and sometimes marginal spines or teeth characteristic of the genus. The flowering structure consists of a prominent, solitary capitulum (flower head) supported by a sturdy stem, featuring involucral bracts that are often highly modified, colorful, or spine-tipped to protect the developing florets. The central disc is composed of numerous small, fertile florets, while the outer ray-like florets provide the visual structure of the bloom, all emerging from a thickened rootstock that anchors the plant firmly in its terrestrial substrate.

Aquatic :

terrestrial

Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)

Chemicals

Carlina diae has 2 reported phytochemicals identified across 0 scientific publications and several other databases. The most consistently reported chemicals include GA3, Gibberellic acid (GA3).

GA3

1. Plants (Basel, Switzerland)

Gibberellic acid (GA3)

1. Plants (Basel, Switzerland)