Eryngium altamaha
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| Eryngium altamaha | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Eryngium altamaha in flower | |
Scientific classification  | |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Clade: | Tracheophytes |
| Clade: | Angiosperms |
| Clade: | Eudicots |
| Clade: | Asterids |
| Order: | Apiales |
| Family: | Apiaceae |
| Genus: | Eryngium |
| Species: | E. altamaha |
| Binomial name | |
| Eryngium altamaha Kees, Weakley & D.B.Poind. | |
Eryngium altamaha is a species of flowering plant in the family Apiaceae. It is endemic to the U.S. state of Georgia and was formally described in 2024.[1]
Eryngium altamaha is a perennial herb with slender, often flexuous stems that branch diffusely from near the base. Mid-stem leaves are typically 2.3–3.5 cm long and bear prominent spinose teeth, especially toward the base.
The species produces hemispherical flower heads subtended by spiny bracts, characteristic of the genus. It can be distinguished from closely related species by its relatively small mid-stem leaves, strongly toothed margins, and diffuse, branching growth form.[2]
Taxonomy
The species was described in 2024 by Kees, Weakley, and Poindexter as part of a revision of the Eryngium integrifolium complex, which recognized multiple distinct taxa previously treated under a broader species concept.
Distribution and habitat
Eryngium altamaha is endemic to Georgia in the southeastern United States.[1] It occurs in Coastal Plain habitats, including wet pine savannas, seepage slopes, and other open, seasonally moist environments.
Similar species
Eryngium altamaha is most closely related to other members of the Eryngium integrifolium complex. It differs from E. lanceolatum in having smaller mid-stem leaves and diffusely branching stems, and from E. ludovicianum in its broader leaves and more strongly developed spinose teeth.[2]
Conservation
Due to its restricted geographic range, Eryngium altamaha may be vulnerable to habitat loss. Formal conservation assessments are still limited following its recent description.