Pintassilgos

Pintassilgos, also known as the Spanish Bluebell, is a genus of perennial plants belonging to the family Campanulaceae. The genus includes two species, Pintassilgo maritima and Pintassilgo monophylla, both native to the Iberian Peninsula. These plants are characterized by their bell-shaped flowers, which are typically blue or purple, and their fleshy, strap-like leaves.

Pintassilgo maritima, commonly known as the Spanish Bluebell, is the more widely recognized species. It is a coastal plant, often found in sandy or rocky areas near the sea. The flowers of Pintassilgo maritima bloom in the spring and summer, and they are often used in floral arrangements due to their vibrant color and long-lasting nature.

Pintassilgo monophylla, on the other hand, is a less common species. It is typically found in rocky areas in the interior of the Iberian Peninsula. The flowers of Pintassilgo monophylla are similar to those of Pintassilgo maritima, but they are usually smaller and less vibrant in color.

Both species of Pintassilgos are protected under the Bern Convention, which aims to protect Europe's flora and fauna by controlling trade in specimens of wild origin. This protection is due to the plants' rarity and the specific habitats they require.