Ulex densus

Ulex densus (Portuguese: tojo-gatunho or tojo-da-charneca)[2] is an evergreen shrub in the family Fabaceae endemic to Portugal.

Ulex densus
Scientific classification
Kingdom: Plantae
Clade: Tracheophytes
Clade: Angiosperms
Clade: Eudicots
Clade: Rosids
Order: Fabales
Family: Fabaceae
Genus: Ulex
Species:
U. densus
Binomial name
Ulex densus
Webb

Description

Ulex densus is an evergreen shrub up to 0.5 m (1.6 ft) in height. It is densely ramified and forms a compact, closed pillow with dry brown stems and a bright green outside. It has spines up to 3 cm (1.2 in) long and secondary spines up to 1.5 cm (0.59 in). Fruits are as large as the plant's calyx and have 1-2 seeds.[3]

Distribution and habitat

Ulex densus grows in the central-west coast of Portugal, mainly on the Lisbon District, southern Leiria District and in the Arrábida Natural Park. It lives in woods and cliffs along the coast, but also Quercus forests (Quercus rotundifolia and Quercus suber) more inland, from sea level to 250 m (820 ft) altitude and prefers limestone substrates.[1][3][4]

Threats

It is mainly threstened by quarries, urbanisation, industrial or commercial areas, communication networks, trampling, overuse and natural fires.[1]

References
  1. Caldas, F.B. (2011). "Ulex densus". IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. 2011: e.T162242A5563181. Retrieved 13 December 2020.
  2. "Ulex densus". EPPO Global Database. Retrieved 13 December 2020.
  3. "Ulex densus" (PDF). Flora Iberica. Retrieved 13 December 2020.
  4. "Ulex densus Welw. ex Webb". Flora-on. Retrieved 13 December 2020.
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