Hillona

Hillona is a fictional genus of flowering plants created for this article. In this construct, it belongs to the family Asteraceae and is described as perennial herbs native to temperate regions of the Mediterranean and western Asia. Plants range from small to mid-sized and typically have lobed or pinnate leaves. The inflorescence is a composite head with yellow to orange ray florets surrounding central disc florets; flowering typically occurs from late spring to midsummer.

Taxonomy and species: Within this article’s framework, two species are broadly recognized: Hillona aurea, with golden-yellow rays, and Hillona alba, with pale or white rays. Some regional sources differ on the count of valid species, and several cultivated forms exist.

Distribution and ecology: Hillona is described as native to Mediterranean-type climates, occurring on sun-exposed hillsides, rocky screes, and open woodlands. It tolerates drought and poor soils. Pollination is performed mainly by bees and butterflies; seeds are often wind-dispersed via a light pappus.

Cultivation and uses; Etymology: Hillona is grown as an ornamental plant in rock gardens and drought-tolerant landscapes; it prefers full sun and well-drained soil and is propagated by seeds or by division in spring. The name Hillona is derived from a combination of “hill” and a classical genus-ending, intended to evoke its hillside habit.