Distribution of the species
On Mt. Paggaio, it occurs in sparse deciduous forests, stony slopes, stony shrublands, road sides, at altitudes from (400-) 500m. up to 1,200 m asl
Description of the species (biological and ecological features)
Impressive, perennial plant, with strong, erect, simple or sparsely branched flowering stems, up to 120 cm tall, covered with glandular hairs. The leaves are oblong-ovate, heart-shaped, with an acute apex, covered on the lower surface by gray-white, soft hairs. The leaves at the base of the plant are long-petiolate, while the leaves along the stem are smaller in size and have a shorter petiole. The flowers are in clusters of 12-20, forming verticillasters. Verticillasters are arranged close to each other, and at their base they have specific structures that look like very narrow leaves (small bracts). Flowers are 2-lipped, hairy on the outside, light and reddish inside. The upper lip looks like a helmet (vaulted and large), while the lower one is smaller, flattened and has 3 lobes (rounded divisions). It flowers from June to August. Photophilous species that can tolerate shading. Prefers sandy, clayey and well-drained soils. It belongs to the Lamiaceae, a family of plants that includes species used in cooking (such as oregano, mint, basil), phytotherapy (such as sage, mountain tea) and aromatherapy (such as lavender, thyme, rosemary).
Due to its relatively wide distribution on Mount Paggaio, no particular threats and pressures were observed or reported, which could lead to a significant reduction in its population.
Conservation status
–
Conservation state
It is not subjected to any national or international conservation status.