Saint Mary's Milk Thistle (Silybum mariae)

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Silybum mariae - Taxonomic Overview and Profile

Recorded within specialized botanical archives, Silybum mariae persists as a distinct taxon of scientific interest. This botanical name represents a species classification within the broader milk thistle genus. Researchers continue to examine its status and relationship to more widespread members of the group.

Taxonomy

  • ∟ царство Plantae
  • ∟ division Tracheophytes (Vascular Plants)
  • ∟ subdivision Spermatophytes (Seed plants)
  • ∟ Angiosperms
  • ∟ mesangiosperms (Core angiosperms)
  • ∟ eudicots
  • ∟ asterids
  • ∟ order Asterales
  • ∟ family Asteraceae
  • ∟ genus Silybum (Milk thistle)
  • ∟ species Silybum mariae (Saint Mary's Milk Thistle)

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Morphology

As an annual to biennial plant, Silybum mariae initially forms a dense basal rosette of leaves on the ground. The large foliage leaves are characterized by striking details:

  • A conspicuous white mottled pattern traces the leaf veins.
  • The leaf margins are wavy in shape.
  • Hard, yellowish spines sit along the leaf margin.

In summer, the erect stem bears terminal, purple-red flower heads several centimeters in diameter. The involucral bracts of the flower head end in strong, widely spreading spines. The seeds are marbled brown-black and carry a white pappus for wind-assisted dispersal.

Interesting facts

The original description by Samuel Frederick Gray in 1821 was part of his efforts to systematically organize the British flora. The chosen specific name directly references Mary, the mother of Jesus, drawing on a centuries-old naming tradition. Botanical synonyms like this help taxonomists trace the historical development of nomenclature.

Geography of distribution

  • Großbritannien
  • France
  • Italy
  • Spain

Sources

Technical Information

External Databases: GBIF, POWO, Tropicos

See also