Ligandeilla

Ligandeilla is a small, perennial flowering plant described in regional floras of the Ligande archipelago. In most classifications it is placed in the family Asteraceae, though some floras treat Ligandeilla as a distinct, monotypic genus. The plant grows as a low clump up to 30–50 cm tall with slender stems, opposite leaves that are lanceolate to ovate, and a dense inflorescence of tiny composite flowers. The flowers are typically pale blue to lavender, blooming from late spring to early summer. The fruit is a small achene with a tufted pappus, aiding wind dispersal.

Ecology: Ligandeilla favors coastal scrub and sandy soils with good drainage. It tolerates salt spray and drought, and depends on local pollinators, including native bees and hoverflies.

Distribution: Endemic to the Ligande archipelago, with cultivated populations in coastal gardens beyond its native range.

Taxonomy and name: The name Ligandeilla derives from the archipelago's name Ligande and the Spanish diminutive suffix -illa, used in regional naming. Some sources discuss a related genus Liganda, but there is no universally accepted consensus on its classification.

Uses: Horticulture uses include ornamental gardening due to its compact size and pastel flowers. In folklore, it is sometimes cited as a plant associated with coastal winds and seaside rituals, though such associations are cultural rather than scientific.

Conservation: In the fictional setting, habitat loss and invasive species are cited as potential threats, with some populations protected in coastal reserves.