SOLENOPSIS subsp. MINUTA

Solenopsis subsp. annua

Annual plants that are somewhat smaller in all parts have been recognized as

subsp. annua (Greuter & al). There is no clear geographical separation between the

subspecies and they are probably taxonomically overrated.¹⁾

1) Arne Strid "Atlas of the Aegean Flora". Book 1 2016

Family:- CAMPANULACEAE

Common Names:- Laurentia

Synonyms:- Laurentia minuta

Meaning:- Solenopsis (Gr) Tube-like.

Minuta (L) Very small, minute.

General description:- A slender, low to short, hairless or finely hairy annual or

perennial.

Leaves:-

a) in basal rosettes in perennial plants.

c) oblong to spatula-shaped.

d) margins, slightly toothed to untoothed.

Flowers:-

a) 4-11mm long.

b) 2-lipped and lobelia-like.

c) solitary, long-stalked.

1) Corolla:

a) upper lip 2-lobed and lower 3-lobed.

b) blue, lilac or white.

c) stigmas 2.

Fruit:-

1) Capsule:

a) opening by 2 apical pores.

Habitat:- Damp rock ledges and open, wet sandy places, 0-700(-1200) m.

Distribution:- Rare in the Aegean region. On Crete, known from a few scattered

localities mainly in the west.

Flowering time:- Mid- Apr-June, occasionally later.

Photo by:- Steve Lenton