levelea

Levelea is a genus of small, perennial herbaceous plants belonging to the family Asteraceae. These plants are native to the Mediterranean region and are characterized by their distinctive deeply lobed leaves, which give the genus its name, derived from the Latin word "laevis" meaning smooth, referring to the leaf edges. The flowers of Levelea are typically small and daisy-like, usually white or pale yellow, and appear during the spring and summer months.

The genus Levelea contains a limited number of species, with each exhibiting subtle variations in leaf morphology and growth habit. They generally prefer well-drained soils and sunny to partially shaded locations. While not widely cultivated, Levelea species are sometimes found in botanical gardens or specialized collections for their ornamental value and contribution to biodiversity. Their ecological role involves supporting local insect populations and contributing to the plant diversity of their native habitats. Further research is ongoing to fully understand the genetic and ecological relationships within the Levelea genus.