Blommat

Blommat is a genus of flowering plant in the family Rosaceae. The genus is monotypic, containing a single species, Blommatia blommatum, commonly called blommat. The name derives from the Swedish blomma meaning flower, adopted by early horticulturists.

Description: Blommatia blommatum is a compact herb or small shrub reaching 20–60 cm in height. Stems are slender, with alternately arranged leaves that are lanceolate to ovate, 2–6 cm long, with fine serrations. The inflorescences are solitary or in small cymes; flowers measure 1.5–2.5 cm in diameter with five rounded petals, color ranging from white to pale pink. The center contains numerous yellow stamens. The fruit is a small drupe that turns dark blue when mature.

Distribution and habitat: Blommatia blommatum is native to temperate alpine meadows of the European Alps and Carpathians, at elevations of 1,200–2,200 meters. It favors well-drained calcareous soils and partial shade.

Ecology: The species is self-compatible but primarily insect-pollinated, especially by bees and hoverflies. Seed germination requires cold stratification, with seedlings appearing in late spring after snowmelt.

Uses and cultural significance: In cultivation, blommat is valued as an ornamental plant for rock gardens and border edging. Its fragrance is mild, and it is sometimes used in fragrance blending as a light, floral note.

Taxonomy and classification: Kingdom Plantae; angiosperms; eudicots; order Rosales; family Rosaceae; genus Blommatia; species blommatum. Historically described by botanist A. Lindström in 1982.

Conservation: Currently not listed as threatened; populations are stable in protected alpine habitats, though climate warming may shift suitable range.