Athanasia pectinata explained

Athanasia pectinata is a species of plant from the Western Cape of South Africa.

Description

This shrublet grows up to 1.2m (03.9feet) tall. It has few branches.^[1] Each of the pinnatisect (split into sections nearly to the midrib, not quite forming leaflets) leaves has 3-5 lobes.^[2] Solitary disc shaped flower heads are crowded in terminal compound inflorescences at the ends of branches. They are yellow in colour and are present between October and December.

Distribution and habitat

This plant is endemic to South Africa.^[3] It grows in the Western Cape, where it is found on damp clay soils between Hermanus and Gouritsmond.

Conservation

This species is common and is considered to be of least concern by the South African National Biodiversity Institute.

Notes and References

1. Web site: IPT . 2023-01-08 . ipt.sanbi.org.za . en.
2. Book: Manning . John . Plants of the Greater Cape Floristic Region : 1: the core Cape flora . Goldblatt . Peter . 2012 . South African National Biodiversity Institute, SANBI . 978-1-919976-74-7 . Pretoria . 852384288.
3. Web site: Threatened Species Programme SANBI Red List of South African Plants . 2023-01-08 . redlist.sanbi.org.