oktaedris

Oktaedris is a genus of flowering plants in the family Asteraceae, native to South America. The genus is characterized by its small, annual herbs, typically growing to a height of 10-30 centimeters. The leaves are alternate, simple, and often hairy, with a toothed margin. The inflorescence is a small, flat-topped cluster of flowers, each with a yellow or white corolla and a five-lobed disk.

Oktaedris is distinguished by its unique seed morphology. The seeds are small, smooth, and have a distinctive octagonal shape, hence the genus name, which is derived from the Greek words "okta" meaning eight, and "edra" meaning face or side. This octagonal shape is a result of the seed's unique development and is not found in any other genus.

The genus includes two known species: Oktaedris coarctata and Oktaedris pilosa. Both species are rare and are known from only a few collections. Oktaedris coarctata is found in the Andean region of Peru, while Oktaedris pilosa is found in the Brazilian state of Minas Gerais.

Oktaedris is of interest to botanists due to its unique seed morphology and its rarity. However, little is known about its biology and ecology, and further research is needed to better understand this fascinating genus.