Zhiguli thyme. Samara region
The flora
of the Zhiguli Mountains includes 28 endemic species. Of particular interest
are the narrowly localized endemics, one of which is Zhiguli thyme (Thymus
zheguliensis). Zhiguli thyme (wild thyme) belongs to the Lamiaceae family. It
is a very rare species and is considered endangered.
Zhiguli
thyme grows as a small subshrub, forming loose tufts. Its stems are covered
with short, down-pressed hairs. The leaves are rounded and have well-defined
long petioles. The flower corolla is bright lilac. It blooms in July-August and
bears fruit in September. Reproduction is both vegetative and by seeds. It
grows in rocky steppe communities.
Historically,
thyme was believed to impart courage. It is thought that the name of the plant
derives from the Greek "thymon," meaning strength. Later, the Latin
"Thymus" also meant strength, and Roman soldiers would take baths
with thyme before battle to boost their vitality and bravery.
Thyme, also
known as wild thyme, is loved by many. It has a strong, pleasant aroma
(reminiscent of anise and caraway) and a spicy, sharp taste. This plant is used
as a popular seasoning for meat and fish, and it is also added to black and
green tea.
In folk
medicine, thyme was used as a diaphoretic and diuretic, as well as an
antispasmodic and sedative. It was used for treating whooping cough, neuralgia,
and stomach cramps. In the form of ointments and compresses, thyme was used for
rheumatism and as a wound healer for skin diseases.
Along with the RUSSIA EXPO, the flower festival is also coming to an end.
The "Future in Flowers" festival continues at the RUSSIA EXPO, where unique flowerbeds from all regions of our country can be seen at the "Space" pavilion until July 8.
The RUSSIA EXPO concludes on July 8, and with it, the flower festival will also come to an end.