Ulex argenteus | |
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Ulex argenteus in flower in Castro Marim, Portugal | |
Scientific classification
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Kingdom: | Plantae |
Clade: | Tracheophytes |
Clade: | Angiosperms |
Clade: | Eudicots |
Clade: | Rosids |
Order: | Fabales |
Family: | Fabaceae |
Subfamily: | Faboideae |
Genus: | Ulex |
Species: | U. argenteus
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Binomial name | |
Ulex argenteus Webb
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Ulex argenteus is a species of gorse native to southern Portugal ( Algarve and Alentejo) in the Iberian Peninsula.
Ulex argenteus is a low-growing shrub with an open branching structure. Branches, stems, and spines are densely covered in short erect hairs, which give the species a silvery colour. Spines are thin and straight or sometimes slightly arched. The calyx is typically 7.5 to 8.5 mm long. [2]
Ulex argenteus is a diploid species. [3] Ulex canescens (diploid), and Ulex erinaceus and Ulex subsericeus (both polyploid) have been included in Ulex argenteus in the past, as subspecies or synonyms. [2] [4] However, phylogenetic evidence suggests they are not closely related to U. argenteus. [3] [5]
The species is distributed in southern Portugal, growing in both metamorphic and calcareous hills. [2] [5]
The species has a narrow distribution range but remains common in suitable habitat. As a result, it has been assessed as Least Concern. [1]
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