Limonium vulgare
Limonium vulgare · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (2 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Limonium vulgare, commonly known as sea lavender, is a resilient coastal plant recognized for its unique biological properties. Recent scientific investigations have highlighted its significant potential in the field of pharmacology due to its diverse bioactive compounds. Specifically, the plant demonstrates notable antimicrobial activities that may assist in combating various pathogens. Furthermore, it is highly regarded for its potent antioxidant activity, which helps mitigate oxidative stress in biological systems. These combined characteristics make Limonium vulgare a subject of great interest for developing new therapeutic applications.
- Synonyms
- Statice Scanica Var. Hallandica · Statice Limonium Subsp. Behen · 19 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Plumbaginaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Not available
Classification
Common Names
Limonium vulgare is a resilient coastal plant known by several distinct names across different regions and languages. In English-speaking areas, it is most frequently referred to as Common Sea-Lavender or simply Common Sea-lavender. Moving into German-speaking territories, the species is widely identified as Gewöhnlicher Strandflieder. Interestingly, it also carries the common name Acelga salgada in certain contexts. Regardless of the local nomenclature used, this plant remains a distinctive feature of maritime landscapes.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Limonium vulgare is a plant species that is frequently subject to various taxonomic classifications within botanical literature. It is widely recognized by several synonyms, including the name Limonium behen. Researchers also commonly refer to this species as Limonium commune in various scientific contexts. This classification extends further to include specific varieties such as Limonium commune var. minus and Limonium commune var. obtusum. Finally, the plant is also identified by the synonym Limonium commune var. serotinum, reflecting the complexity of its nomenclature.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Limonium vulgare belongs to the vast kingdom Plantae, showcasing the incredible diversity found within the natural world. As a member of the class Equisetopsida, this species follows a specific evolutionary lineage that defines its biological structure. It is classified under the order Caryophyllales, a group that links it to many other unique flowering plants. Within this order, it sits firmly in the family Plumbaginaceae, which is known for its distinct botanical characteristics. Finally, it is identified by its specific genus, Limonium, which helps scientists categorize its unique traits and growth patterns.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Plumbaginaceae |
| Genus | Limonium |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Limonium vulgare is widely distributed across various regions of the European continent. In Middle Europe, this species can be found thriving within the territories of Belgium, Germany, and the Netherlands. Its presence extends further north, reaching into the diverse landscapes of Northern Europe. Specifically, it is established in the coastal and inland areas of Denmark and Great Britain. This broad geographic range highlights the plant's ability to adapt to different European environments.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Limonium vulgare is a distinctive herb characterized by its self-supporting growth form. This plant typically maintains a modest stature, reaching a maximum height of approximately 0.5 meters. Depending on its environment, the specimen may be as short as 0.1 meters. More specifically, many individuals often establish a minimum height of around 0.165 meters. These varying dimensions highlight the adaptable nature of this resilient species.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Limonium vulgare stands out as a particularly potent coastal halophyte due to its rich concentration of bioactive secondary metabolites. Research conducted on plants from the Balkan Peninsula highlights that this species possesses exceptional antioxidant properties. In fact, its antioxidant performance and phenolic content are comparable to, or even exceed, those of well-known medicinal plants. Beyond its ability to combat oxidative stress, the plant also demonstrates significant antimicrobial potential. These dual characteristics establish Limonium vulgare as a valuable natural source for developing therapeutic compounds.
Compounds
Conditions
Limonium vulgare demonstrates significant bioactive properties through its notable antioxidant activity. Research indicates that this halophyte possesses some of the best antioxidant properties among the studied coastal plants. Additionally, the species exhibits significant antimicrobial potential, making it a potent source of bioactive molecules. These combined effects are supported by its high content of phenolic compounds. Consequently, the plant serves as a valuable natural resource for both antioxidative and antimicrobial applications.