Oxytropis Korabensis in Korab-Koritnik Park

Today, on World Environment Day, we are dedicating attention to a rare plant that grows in Korab-Koritnik Park: Oxytropis Korabensis. Oxytropis korabensis is a perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the Fabaceae family (the legume family). This is an endemic species, which means it is found only in a specific geographic area – specifically, in the Korab massif, on the border between Albania and North Macedonia.

Botanical Description: Height: It is a small plant, usually growing close to the ground. Leaves: They are compound (composed of small leaflets), with a surface covered in fine hairs that give it a grayish appearance. Flowers: They are usually violet or blue-violet, organized in clusters at the tip of the stem. Fruit: It is a small pod containing many seeds, covered with hairs.

Habitat and Distribution: It grows at high altitudes, usually above 2,000 meters. It prefers rocky soils, alpine grasslands, and dry, sun-exposed areas. It is a relict and alpine endemic species, which makes it very sensitive to climate change and human impacts.

Significance and Protection: Oxytropis Korabensis has great scientific and conservation value due to its rarity and endemism. It is frequently the subject of botanical and ecological studies in the Korab area. In some local biodiversity lists, it is considered an endangered species and is included in measures for the conservation of Balkan alpine flora. Oxytropis Korabensis is part of a study on the Inventory of rare and endemic plants for Korab-Koritnik Natural Park, being conducted by ALCDF with the expert group of the Iliria association, within the framework of the project "Protection and Sustainable Use of Protected Areas in Shar Mountain, Mavrova, and Korab-Koritnik". This project is funded by the PONT program – Prespa Ohrid Nature Trust, implemented by ALCDF and partners CSCD and LAG Dibra Turistike.