Gundelia

Gundelia is a genus of flowering plants in the family Asteraceae, containing a single species, Gundelia tournefortii. It is a thistle-like plant native to the Middle East, including Turkey, Israel, Syria, and Iraq, as well as parts of Southeastern Europe.

Gundelia tournefortii is a spiny, herbaceous perennial plant that typically grows to a height of 30-100 cm. It has a characteristic rosette of basal leaves that are deeply divided and spiny. The plant produces multiple flower heads clustered together in a spherical shape surrounded by spiny bracts. The flowers are typically purple or pink.

The plant has a long history of traditional use in the regions where it grows. The young shoots, stems, and flower heads are consumed as food, often prepared by roasting or boiling. The seeds are also sometimes eaten. Traditionally, Gundelia tournefortii has been used in folk medicine for a variety of purposes, although scientific evidence supporting these uses is limited.

The plant is well adapted to arid and semi-arid environments. It often grows in disturbed areas and along roadsides. Gundelia can be considered a weed in some agricultural settings.

The taxonomy of Gundelia has been relatively stable, with Gundelia tournefortii consistently recognized as the sole member of the genus.