Chorology, ecological, biological and morphological characteristics of Ligularia sibirica (L.) Cass. (Asteraceae)

Abstract

Aims. The article is devoted to the review of studies on the distribution, ecological, biological, and morphological characteristics of Ligularia sibirica (L.) Cass. (Asteraceae) in Ukraine and worldwide. Methods. The information was studied using theoretical analysis, systematization, comparison, and generalization methods. Results. The history of research and the distribution of L. sibirica were analyzed. It was found that studies of the plant have been conducted over several centuries. This species has significant floristic, ecological, and phytogeographical value. In Ukraine, it is protected at the state level; in Poland, the Czech Republic, and Romania, it is a rare species. The continuous distribution range of L. sibirica extends in East Asia, while other European populations are fragmented and isolated. The distribution in Europe includes Estonia, Latvia, Poland, Hungary, Romania, Croatia, the Czech Republic, Bulgaria, Turkey, Ukraine, Austria, Italy, Slovakia, and France. The species prefers moist habitats, such as wet meadows, riverbanks, and forest outskirts.
The plant is characterized by relative ecological plasticity concerning soil acidity, high adaptability to increased moisture conditions, and shade tolerance. Conclusions. The analyzed species, L. sibirica, is distributed in Ukraine, primarily in the western regions. Considering the potential value of this species as a source of medicinal plant raw materials, it warrants further investigation, particularly in light of its inclusion in the Red Data Book of Ukraine (2021).