New plant species named after Lionel Messi
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An international team of scientists discovered a new plant species in the Andes Mountains of Peru and named it Salvia messii in honor of soccer player Lionel Messi.
The plant grows in rocky, arid areas at altitudes between 2,000 and 2,400 meters. Researchers chose the name because the flower’s white and light blue petals resemble the colors of the Argentina national team jersey. Argentine agricultural engineer Rolando Uría first noticed the plant in photos shared by amateur enthusiasts online.
He identified differences from known plant species and contacted Peruvian botanist Paúl Gonzáles Arce and biologist Jean Capcha Ramos to investigate. The team confirmed the plant’s novelty through historical records, scientific collections, and field expeditions. The scientists published their findings in the journal Phytotaxa, following strict botanical naming rules. The “messii” ending signifies dedication to Messi. Though still under study, the plant, a member of the mint family, may contain compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Experts currently classify Salvia messii as endangered due to its limited distribution and vulnerability to environmental threats like wildfires and climate change.
