krasslinii

Krasslinii is a genus of flowering plants in the family Asteraceae, native to the Mediterranean region and the Canary Islands. The genus is named after the botanist Johann Anton Krassl, who first described the plants. Krasslinii species are characterized by their small, daisy-like flowers and their preference for rocky, dry habitats.

The genus includes four species, all of which are endemic to the Canary Islands. Krasslinii canariensis is the most widespread species, found on all of the major islands. Krasslinii canariensis var. canariensis is the typical variety, while Krasslinii canariensis var. teneriffae is found only on Tenerife. Krasslinii canariensis var. teneriffae is distinguished by its smaller size and more compact growth habit. Krasslinii canariensis var. teneriffae is also known as Krasslinii teneriffae, a separate species in some classifications.

Krasslinii canariensis is a perennial herb, growing to a height of 10-30 cm. It has a basal rosette of leaves and produces a single flower head at the end of the stem. The flower head is surrounded by a ring of involucral bracts, which are green and hairy. The individual flowers are yellow and daisy-like, with a central disc surrounded by ray florets.

Krasslinii canariensis is used as a food plant by the larvae of some Lepidoptera species, including the Canary Islands swallowtail (Papilio demoleus) and the Canary Islands fritillary (Argynnis aglaja). The plant is also used as a medicinal herb in traditional Canarian medicine, where it is used to treat various ailments, including digestive problems and skin conditions.