Distribution of the species
It is an endemic species of the mountains of Eastern Macedonia. It was first collected in 1936 in Paggaio, by the Austrians Karl Heinz Rechinger and Frida Rechinger-Moser, a fact to which it owes its name. It occurs in mountainous places between 1,500 and 1,900 m asl. On stony slopes, on road sides, in forest and shrubland openings as well as in rocky places of mountain (sub-alpine) meadows.
Description of the species (biological and ecological features)
Quite common in the subalpine grasslands of the mountain. Biennial, robust herbaceous plant, up to 30-65 cm, with permanent, soft, flexible, white to yellowish, twisted hairs. The leaves at the base are oblong, with a pointed apex, fuzzy serrated edges, and cuneate base. The leaves of the stem, from the lowest to the highest, are reduced in size, the upper one sessile, ovate, somewhat pointed. Its vivid yellow flowers are found in terminal, very dense and usually without branching inflorescences. Inflorescence whitish, partially hairy, as is the outside of its flowers. The stamens are five and have orange anthers and yellow, hairy filaments. The Latin name of the genus (Verbascum) derives from “barbascum” (beard) which resembles the hairs of its leaves. The species of the genus Verbascum are known for their medicinal properties, mainly used to treat asthma. Oil from the flowers of some species was used to treat ear infections.
Although it occurs at high altitudes in a limited area, the species does not appear to be threatened by any factors. Perhaps road construction on sub-alpine areas could reduce the size of its population.
Conservation status
–
Conservation state
It is not subjected to any national or international conservation status.