Les Astragales. A la découverte de la Flore libanaise. 2012. illus. 144 p. Brochè.- In French.

Astragalus plants belong to the Fabaceae (Papilionaceae) family. This family comprises around 2,500 species found throughout the world, with a concentration in central and western Asia. In Lebanon, there are more than 50 species of astragalus, of which 8 are endemic, 13 are found only in Lebanon and Syria, and around 26 are found only in the eastern Mediterranean basin. Several morphological classifications have been established. Only a genetic study could settle the matter and would make it possible to separate or, conversely, group certain species together. This book provides a descriptive study of the various astragalus species found in Lebanon. Each chapter begins with the Latin name of the species, followed by the name(s) of the discoverer(s), then the French and English names of the plant. Each chapter covers the general appearance of the plant, a description of the leaves, flowers and pods, followed by the plant’s habitat and geographical distribution worldwide and in Lebanon. Finally, the flowering date is given.