Carlina

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Carlina biebersteinii 3

Carlina canariensis var. xeranthemiformis 01

Asteraceae - Carlina corymbosa-2

Carlina is a genus of flowering plants in the Asteraceae family, which is known for its diverse species commonly found in Europe, North Africa, and Asia. The genus includes perennial, biennial, and annual plants, characterized by their spiny leaves and large, solitary flower heads that resemble thistles. The flower heads are usually surrounded by an involucre of spiny bracts, and the central disc florets are typically yellow, surrounded by ray florets in some species. Carlina species are adapted to a range of habitats, from dry, sandy soils to mountainous regions.

Description

Plants in the genus Carlina are known for their distinctive appearance, which includes spiny foliage and flower heads. The leaves are often lanceolate or ovate, with a spiny margin, and can vary in size across species. The flowers, which bloom from late summer to autumn, are hermaphroditic, meaning they have both male and female organs, and are pollinated by insects, particularly bees and butterflies. The seeds of Carlina species are typically dispersed by wind.

Taxonomy

The genus Carlina was first described by Carl Linnaeus in 1753. It belongs to the subfamily Carduoideae within the Asteraceae family, which is one of the largest families of flowering plants. The taxonomy of Carlina has been subject to revision, with some species being reclassified based on molecular phylogenetic studies. The genus includes several species, some of which are:

• Carlina acaulis – Stemless carline thistle
• Carlina vulgaris – Common carline thistle
• Carlina biebersteinii – Bieberstein's carline thistle
• Carlina corymbosa – Corsican carline thistle

Ecology

Carlina species are found in a variety of ecological niches, ranging from dry, open fields to rocky mountainous areas. They are well adapted to survive in harsh, nutrient-poor conditions, which is reflected in their spiny leaves and robust nature. These plants play a role in the ecosystem by providing nectar and pollen for pollinating insects. However, their spiny nature can make them less palatable to herbivores, offering a form of natural defense against grazing.

Conservation

While many Carlina species are common and not considered at risk, some species have limited distributions and face threats from habitat loss, overgrazing, and climate change. Conservation efforts for these species may include habitat protection, monitoring of populations, and, in some cases, cultivation in botanical gardens.

Uses

Historically, Carlina species have been used in traditional medicine for their purported diuretic, digestive, and antiseptic properties. The root of the stemless carline thistle (Carlina acaulis), in particular, has been used in herbal remedies. In addition, these plants are sometimes cultivated as ornamentals for their striking appearance and drought tolerance.