French hog’s fennel
(Peucedanum gallicum)
Family: Apiaceae
The French hog’s fennel is a herbaceous, perennial plant that can be observed in Vale do Lourêdo, near the creek. Its height can vary between 35 and 100 centimeters, with a green stem with white streaks, with two or three alternating divisions at the top. The leaves are green, thin, and elongated, and are usually present in the basal zone of the plant. The inflorescences are umbels, forming clusters of small flowers that can be white or pink.
This species occurs mainly on the edges of watercourses with well-developed riparian zones. It is only known to occur in Portugal, Spain, and France. In Portugal, in addition to Vale do Lourêdo, it is known to occur near the Minho river, in Lafões and in Montesinho. Their preferred habitats are riverbanks, woodland edges, pastures, and open woodland areas.