Distribution of the species
A local endemic, recorded in several sites, mainly in the N, NW, S and SE slopes of Mt. Paggaio. It can be found between 400 and 1.700 m asl.
Description of the species (biological and ecological features)
It has been recorded in a rather large number of sites, with quite a large number of individuals in many of them. Biennial, herbaceous plant with one or more stems, 60-100 cm tall. Leaves vary, depending on their location on the stem. The lower leaves are ovate to triangular, with serrated edges and a long petiole. The middle leaves are smaller, with a shorter petiole. The upper leaves are lanceolate and sessile. Its narrow bell-shaped flowers, are bluish-violet and apical. They are arranged in groups of 3-5 (heads), except for the top head (uppermost) which has up to 10 flowers. It flowers from June to July (-August). It was described relatively recently, in 1998, being one of the few endemic species of the mountain. It is found in rocky outcrops of limestone and / or schists, in beech forests and openings and edges thereof, as well as along forest roads and mountain paths. Prefers sunny open places with or without sparse woody vegetation.
The most important threats for its populations are related to changes in the vegetation of the area or to negative impacts caused by human activities. Extensive construction projects and/or road widening might threaten it, alter or destroy its habitats, therefore, all these works should therefore be carried out with extreme caution. Grazing does not seem to have a negative effect on its populations, as it is relatively abundant even in intensively grazed places.
Conservation status
Vulnerable.
Conservation state
It is included in the “Red Data Book of the rare and Threatened Species of Greece” where it is classified as Vulnerable according to the IUCN threat categories