Betony-leaved Rampion (Phyteuma betonicifolium, Betonien-Teufelskralle) is a perennial herb native to mountain meadows and open forests, preferring calcareous soils. It features slender stems topped with loose clusters of pale violet to bluish flowers and broad, toothed leaves resembling betony.
Ecologically, it provides valuable nectar for bees, bumblebees, and butterflies, especially in alpine and subalpine regions where few other plants bloom at the same time. As a species of undisturbed, nutrient-poor habitats, it contributes to the biodiversity and stability of mountain ecosystems.

#betonyleavedrampion #rampion #phyteuma #phyteumabetonicifolium #betonienteufelskralle #teufelskralle #wildflower #flower #wood

Close-up of a spherical devil’s claw (Phyteuma orbiculare; German: Kugelige Teufelskralle).

Today I pulled out a lot of rattle (Rhinanthus) from our field, trampled the meadow a bit, and took some photos. I’m aware that Rhinanthus can contribute to biodiversity, but if it gets out of hand—several hundred plants in just a few square meters—and goes fully to seed, it can actually reduce biodiversity.

#wildflowers #macro #deepviolet #flowers #phyteumaorbiculare #teufelskralle #meadow #flowerfriday #biodiversity

#bloomscrolling #alpen #tirol #wilderkaiser
#teufelskralle #phyteuma