Galvezia

Galvezia is a genus of flowering plants in the plantain family, Plantaginaceae. These plants are commonly known as island snapdragons. They are native to the Channel Islands of California and Baja California, Mexico.

Galvezia species are typically shrubs or subshrubs with small, often bright green leaves and tubular, brightly colored flowers. The flowers are pollinated by hummingbirds and bees.

The genus is named in honor of José de Gálvez, a Spanish lawyer and politician who played a significant role in the colonization of California.

Some species, such as Galvezia speciosa, are cultivated as ornamental plants in gardens, particularly in Mediterranean climates. They are valued for their drought tolerance and long flowering period.

The taxonomy of Galvezia has been revised in recent years, with some species previously classified in other genera being moved into Galvezia. This reflects ongoing research into the relationships between plant species based on genetic and morphological data.