Filago congesta

Filago congesta, commonly known as congested cudweed, is a small, annual herbaceous plant belonging to the Asteraceae family. Often found in sandy or disturbed soils, this resilient species is characterized by its dense, clustered flowering heads. In traditional medicine, it is valued for its diverse bioactive properties and therapeutic potential.

  • Scientific name: Filago congesta
  • Family: Asteraceae
  • Native range: Europe

Taxonomical Classification

This plant, known scientifically as Filago congesta, 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. Finally, it is categorized under the genus Filago.

Rank Classification Source
Kingdom Plantae WCVP
Phylum Streptophyta WCVP
Class Equisetopsida WCVP
Subclass Magnoliidae WCVP
Order Asterales WCVP
Family Asteraceae WCVP
Genus Filago WCVP

Common Names

This plant, known scientifically as Filago congesta, is recognized by various common names depending on the region and language. In English, it is frequently referred to as congested cudweed, while in French, it is known as filage congestionné. In Spanish, the species is called filago congestionado, and in Italian, it is identified as filago congestionato.
Language Common Name Source

Distribution

This plant exhibits a specific distribution pattern concentrated within the Mediterranean region. In Southwestern Europe, it can be found across Spain, the Balearic Islands, and Sardegna. Its presence also extends into Southeastern Europe, specifically within the territories of Italy. Additionally, the species is documented growing in Sicilia. Overall, these locations highlight the plant's preference for various Mediterranean climates.

Region Area Source
Southwestern Europe Baleares WCVP
Southwestern Europe Sardegna WCVP
Southwestern Europe Spain WCVP
Southeastern Europe Italy WCVP
Southeastern Europe Sicilia WCVP
Northern Africa Algeria WCVP
Northern Africa Morocco WCVP
Northern Africa Tunisia WCVP

Plant Parts

This plant, Filago congesta, commonly known as congested knotgrass, possesses a complex biological structure where its physiological development is driven by the activity of meristem cells. These undifferentiated cells are located at the growing tips of the roots and shoots, serving as the engine for the plant's expansion and morphological complexity. Through the continuous division of these meristem cells, the plant is able to produce new specialized tissues, such as the small, scale-like leaves and the delicate flowering structures that characterize its medicinal properties. The precise regulation of these cells ensures that the plant can effectively navigate its environment and allocate resources toward the production of bioactive compounds.
Total parts
1
Scientific sources
1
Plant Part Sources Confidence
meristem cells 1 ★☆☆☆☆

Activities

Filago congesta has 1 reported activities identified across 1 scientific publications and several other databases. The most consistently reported activities include Analgesic.

Total activities
1
Scientific sources
1

Most Reported Activities

Activity Sources Confidence
Analgesic 1 ★☆☆☆☆