Teikiamas

Teikiamas is a small, herbaceous genus of flowering plants first described by French botanist Jules Dumont in 1905. The genus, placed within the family Apiaceae, is characterized by its compound umbels of white to pale pink flowers and finely dissected leaves. Individual species are typically perennial, with a taproot system that allows them to thrive in rocky or alpine soils. The flowers are relatively short-lived but display a fragrance reminiscent of fresh grass, attracting a variety of pollinators, including bees and hoverflies.

The natural range of Teikiamas extends across the temperate zones of East Asia, with confirmed populations in the mountainous regions of modern-day Japan, Korea, and parts of northern China. In these habitats, the plants occupy alpine meadows and subalpine scree slopes, often coexisting with other low‑lying herbaceous species. While the genus is not widespread, it shows a notable ecological adaptability, tolerating a wide range of pH levels and soil compositions.

Traditional uses of Teikiamas are found among local mountain communities, who have employed the leaves and roots as a mild diuretic and soothing remedy for minor aches. In ornamental horticulture, the plants are occasionally cultivated for their delicate aesthetic, though their requirement for well-drained, rocky substrates limits their popularity in mainstream gardening. Conservation assessments have not identified significant threats to Teikiamas populations; however, climate change and habitat disturbance pose potential long-term risks that warrant monitoring.