Floquetteoria

Floquetteoria is a monotypic genus of flowering plants in the family Asteraceae. It contains a single species, Floquetteoria florens, native to the western Mediterranean with confirmed occurrences in Corsica and Sardinia. The genus was described in 2023 by botanists Lavigne and Costa, based on distinctive floral morphology and calyx traits that distinguish it from related groups.

Floquetteoria florens is a low-growing perennial, 12–40 cm tall, with alternate, lanceolate leaves and slender stems. The inflorescences are heads bearing lavender ray florets and a central disk of yellow tubular florets. The fruit is a glabrous achene with a pale pappus that enables wind dispersal. Flowering occurs in late spring to early summer.

Habitat and distribution are tied to rocky coastal scrub and limestone outcrops in Corsica and Sardinia, at elevations up to about 500 meters. Populations are small and localized, often occurring in microhabitats near maritime environments. This restricted distribution contributes to its interest for conservation and monitoring.

Taxonomically, Floquetteoria is placed in the tribe Astereae of Asteraceae. It is distinguished by its calyx morphology and the distinctive combination of lilac ray florets with a yellow disk. Molecular data suggest Floquetteoria forms a distinct lineage related to other Mediterranean genera but remains genetically unique.

Etymology: the genus name honors the concept of small flowerlets, with florens deriving from Latin for flowering. The name emphasizes the plant’s characteristic, compact inflorescences.

Conservation: as of 2025, Floquetteoria florens is known from a limited number of populations and has a Data Deficient status pending further surveys. Threats include habitat disturbance from grazing and coastal development; some populations lie within protected areas.