Echium orientale
Echium orientale L.
Echium orientale L., described by Carl Linnaeus in 1753, is a biennial plant in the Boraginaceae family. It is native to the Black Sea region of northern Turkey, growing in forest clearings at elevations between 1050 and 1500 metres. The plant is notable for its large basal leaves, asymmetrical flowers, and unusually large, glossy fruits. It was historically classified under the genus Echium but has been reclassified into its own distinct genus, Megacaryon, based on modern genetic studies.
Description
Echium orientale L. is a member of the Boraginaceae (borage) family and was first described by Linnaeus in 1753. This species is native to northern Turkey, where it grows in small clearings within humid beech and fir forests. It is distinguished by its large leaves, which can exceed 60 cm in length, and its unusually large fruits. The plant has undergone several taxonomic revisions since its initial description, with recent genetic research supporting its placement in the genus Megacaryon. It was previously grouped with other Echium species but is now recognized as the sole representative of its genus. The plant's scientific classification has been discussed in botanical literature, including detailed analyses of its lectotype by Burtt.
Synonyms
Megacaryon armenumMegacaryon orientaleOnosma megaloapermaEchium grandiflorumOnosma megalosperma
