Cheirolophus Teydis

Cheirolophus teydis, commonly known as the Teide cornflower or Cabezón del Teide, is a striking perennial shrub endemic to the high-altitude volcanic slopes of Tenerife and La Palma in the Canary Islands. Growing robustly in the harsh, sun-drenched subalpine zones, this resilient plant is a magnificent example of island adaptation. It stands out with its globose form and erect stems capped by pale yellow, thistle-like flower heads. Historically, it has survived in some of the most barren, rocky environments of Mount Teide, adapting beautifully to nutrient-poor soils and extreme temperature fluctuations. This species plays an important ecological role in its restricted habitat, offering pollen and nectar to native insects like the endemic bumblebee in areas where few other plants can thrive. Visitors to the Teide National Park during late spring are often treated to the spectacular sight of these shrubs in full bloom.

Habitat: Found in high-altitude subalpine scrublands and rocky volcanic slopes of the Canary Islands, primarily between 1,800 and 2,200 meters above sea level.