Col de Risco
Crambe feuilleei
Photo: iNaturalist: (c) Helder Santiago, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC), uploaded by Helder Santiago
Overview
Crambe feuilleei (Col de Risco) is a rare endemic cruciferous plant species found in the Canary Islands, characterized by its distinctive white four-petaled flowers and thick, succulent-like leaves adapted to arid conditions. This perennial herb plays a crucial role in its ecosystem by providing nectar for endemic pollinators and helping stabilize soil in rocky coastal areas.
Crambe feuilleei is critically endangered due to its extremely restricted range on the remote island of Deserta Grande in the Madeira archipelago, where it faces severe habitat degradation from invasive plant species and historical overgrazing. The species' tiny population size and limited genetic diversity make it highly vulnerable to stochastic events and environmental changes.
Habitat
Col de Risco inhabits steep volcanic cliff faces and rocky coastal terraces in the Canary Islands, typically growing in crevices and ledges between 50-400 meters elevation. The species thrives in well-drained volcanic soils with high salt tolerance, often in areas exposed to maritime winds and salt spray.
Other threatened species in Brassicaceae
Frequently asked questions
Why is Col de Risco classified as Critically Endangered?
Where does Col de Risco live?
What are the main threats to Col de Risco?
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