Limoniastrum monopetalum

Limoniastrum monopetalum · Accepted scientific name

Scientific literature: Very Sparse (5 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆

, scientifically known as Limoniastrum monopetalum, is a remarkable medicinal plant valued for its diverse therapeutic properties. Often utilized in traditional healing practices, it contains bioactive compounds capable of addressing various ailments. Understanding its botanical characteristics and pharmacological potential is essential for exploring its significant contributions to natural medicine.

Family
Plumbaginaceae
Native range
Europe
Parts used
Not available
Common names
Not available
Scientific synonyms
Limoniastrum Multiflorum · Limoniastrum Monopetalum Subsp. Multiflorum · 6 more

Names and Synonyms

Scientific Names

Accepted name

Limoniastrum monopetalum

Synonyms

Regional and Traditional Names

Spanish:

  • Limoniastro
  • Salado
  • Verdolaga seca

German:

  • Strauch-Strandflieder

French:

  • Grand statice

Sources: Wikidata, Catalogue of Life

Taxonomical Classification

This plant, known scientifically as Limoniastrum monopetalum, belongs to the kingdom Plantae and the phylum Streptophyta. Within the class Equisetopsida and subclass Magnoliidae, it is classified under the order Caryophyllales. Finally, it is a member of the family Plumbaginaceae and falls under the genus Limoniastrum.

Rank Classification
Kingdom Plantae
Phylum Streptophyta
Class Equisetopsida
Subclass Magnoliidae
Order Caryophyllales
Family Plumbaginaceae
Genus Limoniastrum

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Distribution

This plant exhibits a specific geographical distribution concentrated within the Mediterranean region of Southwestern Europe. It can be found growing across the diverse landscapes of Spain and Portugal. Its presence extends to the French coastline, marking a significant portion of its European range. Additionally, the species inhabits several island territories, including the Baleares and Sardegna. Together, these locations define the primary natural habitat for Limoniastrum monopetalum.

Region Area
Southwestern Europe Baleares
Southwestern Europe France
Southwestern Europe Portugal
Southwestern Europe Sardegna
Southwestern Europe Spain
Southeastern Europe Greece
Southeastern Europe Italy
Southeastern Europe Kriti
Southeastern Europe Sicilia
Northern Africa Algeria

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Botanical Identification

Ecology

The ecology of Limoniastrum monopetalum is characterized by its presence in low-lying coastal or alluvial environments, as it occupies a specific altitudinal niche. This species thrives within a narrow elevational range, extending from a minimum of 0 m AMSL to a maximum of 100 m AMSL. This distribution pattern suggests an adaptation to lowland habitats, likely favoring areas with high humidity, consistent moisture availability, or proximity to maritime and riparian influences typical of such low elevations.

Elevational range max:
100 m AMSL
Elevational range min:
0 m AMSL

Life history

The life history of Limonia reticulata (syn. Limonia monopetalum) is characterized by a perennial lifecycle, allowing the plant to persist through multiple growing seasons. In terms of its ecological structure and growth habit, it is classified under the life form of a chamaephyte, indicating that its buds and regenerative shoots are located close to the ground level, protected by the substrate or surface litter. This chamaephyte classification applies across its developmental stages, ensuring stability and survival within its specific habitat.

Life form :
chamaephyte
Lifecycle :
perennial

Morphology

The morphology of Limoniastrum monopetalum is characterized by a woody growth form, specifically classified as a shrub. The plant is a self-supporting, independent species that does not function as a parasite. In terms of stature, it maintains a relatively low profile, with a plant height ranging from a minimum of 0.3 m to a maximum of 1.2 m. While its habitat preferences can encompass aquatic and semiaquatic environments, it is fundamentally characterized by its terrestrial nature.

Aquatic :
terrestrial
Climber :
self-supporting
Growth form :
shrub
Parasite :
independent
Plant height max:
1.2 m
Plant height min:
0.3 m
Woodiness :
woody

Physiology

The physiology of Limoniastrum monopetalum is characterized by distinct morphological adaptations, particularly regarding its foliage and water management strategies. The plant features a specialized leaf morphology defined by a linear form, with leaf lengths ranging from a minimum of 2 cm to a maximum of 8 cm. These leaves exhibit a width that fluctuates between 0.2 cm and 1.3 cm, contributing to a slender profile. The phyllotaxy is organized in an alternate arrangement, which optimizes light interception across the stem. Furthermore, the plant exhibits succulence, a physiological trait that facilitates efficient water storage within its tissues, allowing it to maintain hydration and metabolic functions in varying environmental conditions.

Leaf arrangement :
alternate
Leaf form :
linear
Leaf length max:
8 cm
Leaf length min:
2 cm
Leaf width max:
1.3 cm
Leaf width min:
0.2 cm
Succulence :
yes

Reproduction

The reproduction of Limoniastrum monopetalum is characterized by its distinctive floral morphology and seasonal flowering patterns. The plant produces flowers arranged in a spike inflorescence, with individual blooms featuring a pink coloration. These flowers typically range in length from a minimum of 1.5 cm to a maximum of 2 cm. The flowering period is seasonally specific, generally beginning in April and concluding in July, though the timing can be variable across different cycles. Furthermore, the reproductive structures are characterized by being indehiscent.

Dehiscence :
indehiscent
Flower colour :
pink
Flower length max:
2 cm
Flower length min:
1.5 cm
Flowering time :
Apr
Flowering time :
Jul
Inflorescence :
spike

Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)

Chemicals

Limoniastrum monopetalum has 1 reported phytochemicals identified across 0 scientific publications and several other databases. The most consistently reported chemicals include camphor.

Chemicals reported in Limoniastrum monopetalum
Chemical Supporting sources Consensus
camphor 1 supporting sources ★☆☆☆☆

camphor

  1. Scientific reports

Activities

Limoniastrum monopetalum has 2 reported activities identified across 0 scientific publications and several other databases. The most consistently reported activities include Antimicrobial, Antiproliferative.

Activities reported in Limoniastrum monopetalum
Activity Supporting sources Consensus
Antimicrobial 1 supporting sources ★☆☆☆☆
Antiproliferative 1 supporting sources ★☆☆☆☆

Antimicrobial

  1. Scientific reports

Antiproliferative

  1. Scientific reports

Conditions

Limoniastrum monopetalum has 1 reported investigations on conditions identified across 0 scientific publications and several other databases. The most consistently reported conditions include E. coli.

Conditions investigated for Limoniastrum monopetalum
Condition Supporting sources Consensus
E. coli 1 supporting sources ★☆☆☆☆

E. coli

  1. Scientific reports