Syn. Cystoseira abrotanifolia
Recognisable by a smooth, flattened “rosette” extending from the axis. All the branches are compressed. Often caespitose, can grow up to 2m, but returns to a small rosette form after the fertile period in late spring and summer.
Both exposed intertidal and shallow subtidal, occasionally deeper
Widespread and common, the most widely distributed species in the Adriatic. Tolerates and occasionally thrives in moderately polluted areas.
- C. compressa f. rosseta – Retains a flattened, rossete form year-round
- C. compressa f. plana – Flattened, but arranged in a single plane, with primary branches showing a midrib. Very rare.