Astydamia is a small monotypic genus of flowering plants in the carrot family Apiaceae (order Umbellales). It comprises a single accepted species, Astydamia latifolia (L.f.) Baill., a coastal herbaceous plant native to the Atlantic islands and neighbouring mainland shores of Northwest Africa. The genus is endemic to a narrow range that includes the Canary Islands, the Savage Islands, Morocco, Mauritania, and Western Sahara, where it grows in maritime habitats typical of the Macaronesian and North African Atlantic coast.
As a member of Apiaceae, Astydamia shares the family's characteristic compound umbel inflorescences and aromatic foliage. The genus was first formally described and published in Coll. Mém. Vol. 5 (p. 53) in 1829. The name derives from Greek mythology, honouring Astydamia, the wife of Acastus, son of Pelias.
Plants of the World Online recognises only Astydamia latifolia as an accepted species within the genus.
Etymology
The genus name Astydamia honours Astydamia, a figure from Greek mythology who was the wife of Acastus, son of Pelias. The genus was first described and published in Coll. Mém. Vol. 5, page 53, in 1829.
Distribution
Astydamia is endemic to Northwest Africa and the adjacent Atlantic islands, occurring on the Canary Islands, the Savage Islands (Ilhas Selvagens), Morocco, Mauritania, and Western Sahara. Its range is characteristic of the Macaronesian and North African Atlantic coastal zone.
Taxonomy Notes
GBIF lists one accepted descendant, consistent with Plants of the World Online recognising only Astydamia latifolia (L.f.) Baill. as the single accepted species. Wikipedia's article mentions two species, but this is not corroborated by current authoritative sources. The genus belongs to family Apiaceae, order Umbellales.
