Otophora

Otophora is a genus of flowering plants in the family Apiaceae, native to Europe and Asia. The genus was first described by the German botanist Johann Friedrich Gmelin in 1791. The name "Otophora" is derived from the Greek words "otos," meaning ear, and "phoros," meaning bearing, referring to the shape of the fruit.

Plants in the Otophora genus are typically perennial herbs with compound leaves and small, white or pink flowers arranged in umbels. The fruits are small, dry, and have a distinctive ear-like shape, which is a key identifying feature of the genus. Otophora species are often found in mountainous regions and prefer well-drained soils.

One of the most well-known species in this genus is Otophora intermedia, also known as the intermediate otophora. This species is native to the Alps and other mountainous regions of Europe. It is a perennial herb that grows up to 60 cm tall and has deeply lobed leaves. The flowers are white and are arranged in compound umbels. The fruits are small, dry, and have a characteristic ear-like shape.

Otophora species are not widely cultivated but are sometimes grown by gardeners interested in alpine plants. They are generally easy to grow and can be propagated by seed or division. The plants prefer full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. They are also relatively pest and disease-resistant.

In summary, Otophora is a small genus of flowering plants in the family Apiaceae, characterized by their ear-like fruits. The genus includes several species that are native to Europe and Asia, with Otophora intermedia being one of the most well-known. These plants are typically found in mountainous regions and are sometimes cultivated by gardeners interested in alpine plants.