Distribution of the species
Rare local endemic of Mt. Paggaio. It is found in open, rocky sites, of steep slopes, as well as on rocky ridges, at altitudes from 1,250 to 1,870 m asl
Description of the species (biological and ecological features)
It formed sparse subpopulations (isolated scattered individuals) at the sites where it was recorded. Perennial, impressive herbaceous plant, with woody, stalked root. It grows in tufts created by stems, which can be up to 50 cm tall. The stems are simple or have few branches in their upper part. The leaves are very narrow (linear), flat or slightly convex, with sparse arachnid hairs and a few glands and can rarely be slightly hairy. The flowering stems have pink-purple “flowers”. It is actually a complex flower (head), consisting of numerous, small, florets, which are densely placed on a wide tray, with a casing like a basket. The inner flowers are pink, while the outer ones are purple, giving a double coloration to the head. It flowers from July to August. It was discovered and described relatively recently (1978) and is one of the few endemic mountain plants. It prefers sunny rocky places (steep slopes) on peaks and at altitudes that approach the tree-line. The genus Centaurea includes at least 519 species in Europe and the Mediterranean, with about 120 of them being found in Greece, including many local endemics, such as the one described here. The scientific name of the genus is probably related to the mythical Centaur Chiron, teacher of Asclepius and educator of Achilles. Chiron used this herb to heal the wound that Hercules had accidentally inflicted on his leg.
Its small geographical distribution and population size, combined with its low competitive ability, make it a special species for Mt. Paggaio. Due to the particularly inaccessible habitat of the species, the plants are not at significant risk from grazing. Plant collectors might be a threat. The continuous gradual coverage of the open rocky places by the expansion of tall vegetation should be considered as the most significant threat.
Conservation status
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Conservation state
It is not subjected to any national or international conservation status.