Tolpis Webbii

tolpis webbii

Tolpis webbii is a charming perennial subshrub endemic to the high-altitude zones of the Canary Islands, particularly Tenerife and La Palma. Belonging to the Asteraceae family, this resilient plant is a classic feature of the subalpine scrub and the understory of Canary Island pine forests. It thrives in volcanic, nutrient-poor soils, painting the dramatic volcanic landscapes with bursts of bright yellow flowers. Its ability to withstand intense solar radiation and seasonal drought makes it a vital pioneer species in these harsh environments, supporting local insect communities.

Habitat: Found in high-altitude volcanic scrublands and Canary Island pine forests, typically on rocky, dry slopes.

Appearance

This plant grows as a woody-based herb or small subshrub reaching 20 to 60 centimeters in height. It features lance-shaped, grey-green leaves that are often clustered at the base or along the lower stems. Its most striking feature is the composite flower heads, which consist of numerous bright yellow ray florets surrounding a slightly darker central disc, mimicking a robust, multi-branched dandelion.

KingdomPlantaePhylumTracheophytaClassMagnoliopsidaOrderAsteralesFamilyAsteraceaeGenusTolpis

Photo: Ben JobsonCC BY 4.0 · iNaturalistView original ↗

Tolpis Webbii

Interesting facts

Despite its delicate, dandelion-like appearance, this plant has a woody base that allows it to survive as a perennial subshrub for years.

It is one of the iconic plant species that decorate the caldera of Teide, Spain's highest peak.

The species name 'webbii' honors Philip Barker Webb, an English botanist who co-authored the definitive 19th-century study on the Canary Islands' flora.

Special abilities

Successfully extracts nutrients and establishes roots in highly porous, young volcanic substrates.

Utilizes specialized leaf cuticles and deep root systems to survive prolonged dry spells in high-altitude environments.

Produces protective flavonoids in its foliage to mitigate damage from intense high-elevation solar radiation.

Measurements & details

Length: 20-60 cm
Lifespan: 2-7 years

Diet & Feeding

As a photoautotrophic plant, it produces energy through photosynthesis, converting sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide into sugars.

Primary Foods

Sunlight
Carbon dioxide
Water
Soil minerals

Ecological connections

Competitor

Canary Island Pine

Pinus canariensis

Serves as an understory competitor for light and space with young saplings.

Mutualism

Canary Island Bumblebee

Bombus canariensis

Relies on native bees for pollination of its bright yellow flower heads.

Eaten by

European Rabbit

Oryctolagus cuniculus

Introduced herbivores browse on its leaves and flower buds, impacting seedling survival.

Traits

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Also known as

No aliases listed yet.

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Safety

Danger

1/5 · Very low

No special safety notes yet.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to identify Tolpis Webbii?

Start with the whole plant, then compare leaf arrangement, leaf edges, stems and any flowers or fruit. Opposite leaves grow in pairs; alternate leaves come one at a time along the stem. These details tell you far more together than a single green leaf does. Plant Identifier: upload a photo and compare the visible details.

How long is Tolpis Webbii?

20-60 cm

How long does Tolpis Webbii live?

2-7 years

What does Tolpis Webbii eat?

As a photoautotrophic plant, it produces energy through photosynthesis, converting sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide into sugars.

Where is Tolpis Webbii usually found?

Found in high-altitude volcanic scrublands and Canary Island pine forests, typically on rocky, dry slopes.