Malesherbia linearifolia (Cav.) Poir.

Common Name and Endemic Range

Malesherbia linearifolia, commonly known by the vernacular name blue star of cordillera, is a subshrub that is endemic to the Coquimbo, Valparaiso, Metropolitana, and O'Higgins regions of Chile.

Taxonomic Description History

It was the first member of the genus Malesherbia to be described, with its original description published in 1797 by Cavanilles.

Phenotypic Similarity to Sister Species

Malesherbia linearifolia is phenotypically very similar to its sister species M. paniculata. Both species grow from a rhizome, produce cymose inflorescences, and have flowers that range in color from light blue to deep purple.

Leaf Structure Differences

The two species differ in their leaf structure: M. paniculata has pinnate leaves, while M. linearifolia has narrow leaves.

Geographic Range Differences

They also differ in their geographic ranges.

Pollinators

Malesherbia linearifolia is pollinated by Lasia aenea, Centris chilensis, and Centris cineraria.