Saisola kali, L.

8. S. kali L. , Sp. Pl. 222 (1753).

Erect or diffuse, glabrous or hispid annual up to 100 cm. Leaves 10-40 mm, linear-subulate, acuminate. Bracts patent; bracteoles ovate-triangular, with long spine-like apex, longer than the flowers. Perianth-segments ovate, acuminate, usually with ovate to reniform wing. Stigmas longer than style. Often on non-saline sands, or as a ruderal. Throughout most of Europe northwards to 63 ° 30' N., but almost exclusively coastal in the north. All except Fa Is Sb.

A polymorphic species, comprising many subspecies and varieties. At least 3 subspecies can be recognized in Europe.

1 Perianth-segments stiff, ± spinose, with distinct mid-vein; plant usually hispid (a) subsp. kali

1 Perianth-segments soft, with obscure mid-vein

2 Plant yellowish, glabrous; bracteoles swollen and ±connate at base; perianth-segments not winged (b) subsp. tragus

2 Plantgrey-green,glabrousorshortlyhispid; bracteolesnot swollen, free; perianth-segments usually winged. (c) subsp. ruthenica