Leontopodium Kurilense - Kurilen -Edelweiß

Leontopodium Kurilense, also known as Kurile-Edelweiß, belongs to the Asteraceae family. This Edelweiß Art is native to the Kurils, an island chain in the North Pacific between Russia and Japan. It is known for its adaptability to rough environmental conditions and its characteristic, star-shaped inflorescences, which are similar to those of the Alpine-Edelweiß.

Botanical characteristics

Leontopodium Kurilense is a herbaceous plant that typically reaches a height of 10 to 20 centimeters. The plant forms densely, pillow -like upholstery and often grows on rocky soils in alpine and subalpine zones. The stems are upright and densely covered with woolly hair, which gives the plant its characteristic silvery and white shine.

The leaves of Leontopodium Kurilense are narrow, lanceolate and also densely hairy. This hair protects the plant from cold and strong wind by reducing the transpiration and has an insulating effect.

The flowering period of Leontopodium Kurilense is in late spring to summer. The inflorescences are compact heads, which consist of numerous small yellow flowers, surrounded by silvery-white leaves, which are arranged in a star shape. These leaves give the plant their distinctive appearance and protect the flowers from extreme weather conditions.

Ecological meaning

Leontopodium Kurilense plays an important role in the alpine and subalpine ecosystems of the Kurils. The plant can often be found in rocky, nutrient -poor soils, where it contributes to stabilizing the soil and prevents erosion. Your dense roots help to improve the soil structure and store moisture.

The plant also offers habitat and food source for various alpine insects, including pollares such as bees and butterflies. These pollinators contribute to the reproduction of the plant and the preservation of biodiversity in these remote ecosystems.

Use and cultural history

Leontopodium Kurilense has a limited but interesting history of use. Due to its rarity and specific habitat claims, the plant is mainly of botanical interest and is less used for medical or culinary purposes than some of its relatives. In traditional medicine in the region, however, various types of leontopodium were occasionally used to treat respiratory diseases and skin problems.

In horticulture, Leontopodium Kurilense is estimated because of its attractive flowers and its ability to survive extreme climatic conditions. It is often cultivated in alpine gardens and stone gardens and contributes to aesthetic beautification. The plant prefers well -permeable soils and full sunlight, which makes it ideal for cultivation in high -rise sites.

Conservation and protection

Leontopodium Kurilense is not classified as threatened in its natural distribution area, but certain populations could be at risk from climate change and human activities. The loss of habitats due to tourist development and climate changes is a potential threat.

Protective measures include the preservation of their natural habitats by setting up protected areas and promoting sustainable land use. Ex-sit conservation measures, such as cultivation in botanical gardens and the establishment of seeds banks, are also important to preserve the genetic diversity of Leontopodium Kurilense and to examine their adaptability itself.