Ionocharis

Ionocharis is a genus of flowering plants in the family Asteraceae, native to the Mediterranean region. The genus was first described by Carl Linnaeus in 1753, with the type species being Ionocharis viscida. The name "Ionocharis" is derived from the Greek words "ion" and "charis," meaning "snow" and "grace," respectively, referring to the white flowers of the plants.

Ionocharis species are perennial herbs, typically growing to a height of 10-30 cm. They have basal rosettes of leaves and produce inflorescences of small, white, daisy-like flowers. The flowers are typically 1-2 cm in diameter and have a central disc surrounded by ray florets. The plants are known for their sticky nature, with the leaves and stems often covered in a sticky substance that helps them adhere to surfaces.

There are currently three recognized species in the genus Ionocharis:

1. Ionocharis viscida, native to the Mediterranean region, including Spain, France, Italy, and Greece.

2. Ionocharis canariensis, native to the Canary Islands.

3. Ionocharis tenella, native to Morocco.

Ionocharis plants are often used in rock gardens and alpine gardens due to their small size and ability to adhere to surfaces. They are also used in medicinal and culinary applications, with the leaves and flowers being used to make teas and tinctures. However, the use of Ionocharis in medicine is not well-documented, and more research is needed to determine its potential benefits and risks.