Marcus-kochia littorea is a subshrub known for its resilience, found in dry, sandy coastal soils in the Mediterranean region. This plant, also called "alhelí de mar" (sea wallflower), belongs to the Brassicaceae family and is characterized by its white-ashy stems and lilac or purple flowers that bloom nearly year-round.
Characteristics and habitat
Habitat: Thrives in dry, sandy, coastal dunes and sandy plains.
Native range: Found in the western and southern Mediterranean regions, including Spain, Portugal, France, Italy, and North Africa (Morocco and Algeria).
Growth: It is a subshrub that can grow up to 40-50 cm tall.
Adaptation: It is well-adapted to salty conditions and can withstand high temperatures.
Appearance and flowering
Flowers: The plant features delicate flowers with a purple or lilac exterior and a yellowish-white underside.
Stems: The stems are described as white-ashy and can be erect or ascending.
Flowering period: Blooms occur almost year-round, from February to December.
Classification and naming
Family: It belongs to the Brassicaceae family (mustard family).
Scientific name: The genus Marcus-kochia was named after the botanist Marcus Koch, and the species name littorea is Latin for "of the coast".
Synonym: It was previously known as Malcolmia littorea.
