Tuosa

Tuosa is a genus of flowering plants in the family Asteraceae. It is native to the Mediterranean region. The genus was described by Carl Linnaeus in 1753. The name Tuosa is derived from the Greek word "tuo," meaning to perfume or to fumigate, referring to the aromatic qualities of some species.

Species within the genus Tuosa are typically annual or perennial herbs. They are characterized by their often finely divided leaves and composite flower heads, which are common to the Asteraceae family. The flower heads usually consist of ray florets and disc florets, and their colors can vary, often including shades of yellow, white, or sometimes purple. The fruits are achenes, which are small, dry, and one-seeded.

Tuosa species are found in a range of habitats, often in dry, sunny locations such as grasslands, rocky slopes, and disturbed ground. Their distribution is primarily concentrated in southern Europe, North Africa, and parts of the Middle East. Some species have been used in traditional medicine or for their aromatic properties. The genus is not widely cultivated, and its ecological role is typical of Mediterranean flora, contributing to local biodiversity. Further research is ongoing to fully understand the taxonomy and distribution of the various species within the Tuosa genus.