Ajuga salicifolia (L.) Schreb. ssp. bassarabica (Savul. et Zahar.) P.W.Ball

A Pontic xeric steppe species. The typical species is restricted to Krym.

The main character that separates the two subspecies is provided by the cauline hairs. In the typical species these are all appressed or semipatent 0,2-1mm long, while in ssp. bassarabica they are all straight and patents, 1-1,5mm long. As it can be seen here in the pictures taken by Russian naturalists from individuals from Krym, this character seems not to be valid.

Citations referring to the typical species exist from the forest-steppe of the Transylvanian Plain (Cluj county - Gherla on Corabai hill, Kovrig / XIXthe century and Bistrita-Nasaud county). There is a high probably that these citations are in reality Ajuga laxmanii a species very frequent in the region.

Chifu, Manzu and Zamfirescu (2006) p. 156 cite this species from Bacau county while in Sarbu, Stefan, Oprea (2013) p. 642 the mentioning of this county is not present.

The species is very rare in the flora of Romania, being present only in Dobrogea - Constanta county (Cotu Vaii) and southern Moldavia / Covurlui Hillocks in Galati county (Pechea, Barbosi). The localty below is a new one. 

In the steppes of Anatolia the species is a common presence and was discovered to have a very interesting biochemistry, including powerful antileukemic substances (see here and here).

Southern shore of Techirghiol Lake, Constanta county, 1st of May 2012, in xeric steppe grasslands. Very rare (around seven individuals).

dr. Alexandru Badarau, alexandru@transsilvanica.net