Godetia

Godetia is a genus of flowering plants in the family Asteraceae, native to the Mediterranean region and southwestern Asia. The genus was named in honor of the French botanist Jean-Baptiste Godet (1760-1844). It includes about 10 species of annual or perennial herbs, characterized by their daisy-like flowers and hairy leaves.

The most well-known species is Godetia scabra, commonly known as the hairy godetia or Mediterranean godetia. This species is native to the Mediterranean region and can be found in various habitats, including rocky slopes, meadows, and disturbed areas. It is a perennial herb that grows up to 50 cm tall, with hairy stems and leaves. The flowers are yellow and arranged in a flat-topped inflorescence, which can be up to 10 cm wide.

Other species in the genus include Godetia aegyptiaca, which is native to Egypt and the Sinai Peninsula, and Godetia argentea, which is native to Turkey and the Caucasus region. These species are similar in appearance to G. scabra but may differ in details such as leaf shape and flower color.

Godetia plants are often used in rock gardens and other Mediterranean-style landscapes due to their hardiness and attractive flowers. They are also occasionally cultivated as ornamental plants in gardens and nurseries. However, they are not commonly grown in temperate regions outside their native range.