Briggsa

Briggsa is a genus of flowering plants in the family Asteraceae, native to the Mediterranean region and the Canary Islands. The genus was named in honor of the British botanist John Briggs, who was a pioneer in the study of the flora of the Canary Islands. Briggsa is characterized by its small, daisy-like flowers and its preference for rocky, sunny habitats.

The genus includes two species: Briggsa canariensis and Briggsa canariensis subsp. canariensis. Both species are endemic to the Canary Islands, with Briggsa canariensis subsp. canariensis found on Tenerife and Briggsa canariensis subsp. canariensis found on Gran Canaria. The plants are perennial herbs, growing to a height of about 10-20 centimeters. They have rosettes of leaves at the base, and produce inflorescences of small, yellow flowers in the summer.

Briggsa is of interest to botanists and horticulturists due to its unique characteristics and its rarity in the wild. It is also a popular subject for study in the field of plant evolution, as it provides insights into the adaptation of plants to harsh, rocky environments. Despite its rarity, Briggsa can be found in several botanical gardens and conservation areas, where it is cultivated and protected.