Widespread across southern Europe and the Mediterranean region, from Spain to the Crimea, Turkey and the Levant. North Africa.
A variable species found on lime-rich soils in sparse grassland, scrub and woodland. Several subspecies have been described, regarded as species by some botanists.
Upper two photographs: Gargano Peninsula, E Italy, 2002; this is subsp cornuta.
Top photo © Alan Hill. Lower photo © Paul Hackney.
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Lower three photographs: Alicante Province, Spain 2006.
© Paul Hackney.
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