Centaurea aspera - Rough Star-thistle

Centaurea aspera, known as the rough star-thistle, belongs to the family of Asteraceae, one of the largest and most diverse plant families worldwide. This herbaceous plant is native to the Mediterranean regions of Europe and is characterized by its special morphology and ecological adaptability.

Morphology

Centaurea aspera is a persistent, herbaceous plant that reaches a height of around 30 to 100 cm. The stem is upright, branched and covered by rough, bristly hair that give the plant its German names. These bristles reduce evaporation and offer protection against predators.

The leaves of the plant are alternately arranged. The lower leaves are deeply lobed or petroleum, while the upper leaves are narrower, whole -marginally and lanceolate. The leaf surface is often also hairy, which serves as an adaptation to dry locations.

The flower heads of Centaurea aspera Are striking and sitting on the stems. They consist of purple to pink tube flowers. The outer flowers are rigidly extended, which gives the plant an attractive appearance and attracts insects. The blind leaves of the flower heads are filled with fine thorns, which protects the plant from predators. The flowering period extends from June to October, whereby Centaurea aspera is an important source of food for pollinators in late summer months.

The fruits are so -called ohine, small, lonely nut fruits, which enable a limited spread by wind by pappus hair.

Distribution and Habitat

Centaurea aspera is particularly common in the western and central Mediterranean regions. Their occurrence extends across Southwest Europe, including Spain, Portugal, southern France and Italy, to North Africa.

The plant prefers dry, sunny locations with well -drained, sandy or gravel soils. It often grows in open meadows, on fallow land, on the side of the road and in dry bush landscapes. Due to its adaptability, it can also thrive in nutrient-poor soils and often takes on pioneering plant character.

Ecological meaning

Centaurea aspera plays an important role in Mediterranean ecosystems. It offers pollen and nectar for a variety of pollinators, including bees, butterflies and other insects. Due to its long flowering period, it is a valuable source of food for pollinators that are active in the hot summer months.

The plant also contributes to the ground stabilization in regions at risk of erosion, since its root system is able to consolidate the soil.

Adjustments to the habitat

Centaurea aspera has several adjustments to the Mediterranean climate, which is characterized by hot, dry summer and mild winter. Your hair protects against water loss and reduces heat intake. The deep roots enable the plant to open up water from deeper soil layers.

In addition, the thorn -like structure of the envelope leaves protects the plant from the meat animal, such as grazing animals that avoid them. These defense mechanisms have to successfully establish Centaurea aspera contributed in their natural habitat.