Karhottimia

Karhottimia is a genus of flowering plants in the family Asteraceae, native to the Mediterranean region. The genus was first described by Jean-Baptiste de Lamarck in 1805, and it includes approximately 10 species. Karhottimia plants are herbaceous perennials, typically growing to a height of 30-60 cm. They are characterized by their daisy-like flowers, which are usually yellow or white, and their basal rosette of leaves.

The genus is named after the French botanist Jean-Baptiste de Lamarck, who was a pioneer in the study of evolution. The specific epithet of each species is derived from the Greek words "karhos" meaning "pome" or "fruit," and "ottimos" meaning "fruitful," reflecting the fruit's resemblance to a pome.

Karhottimia species are often used in rock gardens and alpine plantings due to their hardiness and ability to thrive in poor soil conditions. They are also popular among botanists for their unique morphology and evolutionary significance.

The genus is not closely related to any other plant genus, and its classification within the family Asteraceae is based on molecular phylogenetic studies. Despite this, Karhottimia shares some morphological similarities with other genera in the tribe Heliantheae, such as the presence of pappus bristles on the fruit.

In summary, Karhottimia is a genus of herbaceous perennials native to the Mediterranean region, characterized by their daisy-like flowers and basal rosette of leaves. The genus is named after the French botanist Jean-Baptiste de Lamarck, and its species are often used in rock gardens and alpine plantings.