Chiliadenus iphionoides

Chiliadenus iphionoides, formerly known as Varthemia iphionoides and sometimes called sharp varthemia, is a small, aromatic, much-branched dwarf shrub of the daisy family (Asteraceae). It forms low cushions of woody stems bearing small, somewhat sticky, gland-dotted leaves that release a strong resinous scent when crushed. In late summer and autumn it produces numerous small heads of tubular yellow florets clustered toward the branch tips, followed by tiny dry achenes tipped with a pappus of fine bristles. A characteristic component of dry, rocky hillsides, garrigue and limestone outcrops, the plant is native to the eastern Mediterranean and adjoining arid lands, occurring through Israel, the Palestinian territories, Jordan, Lebanon, Syria and the Sinai. Its dense, grey-green, drought-adapted habit and aromatic foliage are typical of the Levantine batha and phrygana vegetation in which it grows.