Family: Plantaginaceae Genus: Anarrhinum

Species: Anarrhinum bellidifolium (L.) Willd.

Common Name(s): daisy-leaved toadflax, lilac snapdragon; (Spanish) acicates de olor, espuela de Adonis, llinaria dolorosa; (Galician) entrelaceira

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Anarrhinum bellidifolium, commonly known as daisy-leaved toadflax, is a hardy summer flowering plant native to the western Mediterranean region, including parts of Spain, Portugal, France, and North Africa. It grows in dry, rocky habitats, including coastal cliffs, scrublands, and disturbed areas. It is often found in sandy or gravelly soils in full sun. Its beautiful lower leaves, which inspired the scientific name bellidifolium, appear in winter and bloom from spring through summer.

Etymology

The species epithet bellidifolium is derived from Latin. “Bellidi-” comes from the Latin word “bellis,” meaning daisy and “-folium” comes from “folium,” meaning leaf. So, bellidifolium roughly translates to “daisy-leaved” or “with leaves resembling those of a daisy.”188

Traditional Medicine

This much appreciated plant was cited in the 18th century by Father Sarmiento for its properties as a healer of sores, wounds, and cuts. The leaf would often be placed on the wound as a band-aid.189

Ecology

Daisy-leaved toadflax is attractive to pollinators such as bees and butterflies, which visit the flowers for nectar and pollen. The plant may also provide habitat and food for other wildlife species, such as small insects and birds.190