Muscosomorphe
| Muscosomorphe | |
|---|---|
Scientific classification 
| |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Clade: | Tracheophytes |
| Clade: | Angiosperms |
| Clade: | Eudicots |
| Clade: | Asterids |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Tribe: | Gnaphalieae |
| Subtribe: | Leyseriinae |
| Genus: | Muscosomorphe J.C.Manning |
| Species: | M. aretioides
|
| Binomial name | |
| Muscosomorphe aretioides (Turcz.) J.C.Manning
| |
| Synonyms[1] | |
Muscosomorphe is a monotypic genus[2] of flowering plants in the family Asteraceae, containing the single species Muscosomorphe aretioides. It is endemic to South Africa, where it grows in sandstone fynbos in the Western Cape.[3]
This is a compact, tufted plant that superficially resembles a patch of moss. It forms a mound just a few centimeters tall. The branches are covered in small, linear leaves. The flower heads each contain 6 or 7 white ray florets and 7 to 9 red disc florets. The fruit has a plumelike white pappus.[2]
The species grows in exposed, rocky habitat, anchoring in thin soil accumulated in rock crevices. It tolerates cold temperatures, dry conditions, wind, and snow.[2]
The plant is widespread in its range and not declining.[3]
References
[edit]- ^ "Muscosomorphe aretioides (Turcz.) J.C.Manning". Plants of the World Online. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. Retrieved 1 July 2025.
- ^ a b c Koekemoer , M. Bryomorphe aretioides. South African National Biodiversity Institute. 2004.
- ^ a b Bryomorphe aretioides. Red List of South African Plants. South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI).