Renctuloa

Renctuloa is a genus of flowering plants in the family Asteraceae. The genus is native to South America, with most species found in the Andes region of Peru and Bolivia. Renctuloa plants are typically herbaceous perennials, growing from rhizomes. They are characterized by their daisy-like flowers, which are usually yellow or orange. The leaves are generally basal, forming a rosette, and can be simple or pinnately compound depending on the species.

Species within the genus Renctuloa are often found in alpine and subalpine environments, thriving in high-altitude grasslands and rocky slopes. They are adapted to harsh conditions, including strong sunlight, cold temperatures, and limited water availability. The exact number of species in Renctuloa is subject to ongoing taxonomic research, but it is generally considered a small genus.

Historically, some species of Renctuloa may have been used in traditional medicine by indigenous populations in their native ranges, though scientific validation of these uses is limited. The ecological role of Renctuloa primarily involves contributing to the biodiversity of high-Andean ecosystems. Pollination is typically carried out by insects. Further research is needed to fully understand the distribution, ecological interactions, and potential ethnobotanical significance of this genus.