Agathius

Agathius is a genus of plants in the family Asteraceae. The genus is found in the Mediterranean region, including parts of Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East. Species within Agathius are typically herbaceous perennials or subshrubs. They are characterized by their distinctive flower heads, which often have ray florets that are either absent or reduced, and disc florets that are typically yellow. The leaves are usually simple and arranged alternately on the stem.

The taxonomy of Agathius has been subject to revision, with some species formerly classified under this genus now placed in other genera, such as Centaurea. This can lead to some confusion in older botanical literature. Despite these taxonomic shifts, the genus Agathius remains recognized by many botanists, though its precise delimitation continues to be a subject of study.

Plants in this genus are generally adapted to dry, sunny environments. Their ecological role often involves contributing to the floral diversity of Mediterranean ecosystems. While not widely cultivated for ornamental purposes, some species may have traditional medicinal uses in the regions where they are native, though scientific evidence for such uses is often limited. Further research is needed to fully understand the ethnobotanical and ecological significance of the Agathius genus.