Morphology and phytochemistry of Teucrium chamaedrys L. (Lamiaceae) cultivated at the Ghirardi Botanic Garden (Lombardy, Northern Italy)

Teucrium chamaedrys L. (Lamiaceae) cultivated at the Ghirardi Botanic Garden (Lombardy, Northern Italy) was studied through a four-level research approach: 1) micromorphological and 2) histochemical to describe features of glandular trichomes on vegetative reproductive organs chemical nature their secretory products, by means Light, Fluorescence Scanning Electron Microscopy; 3) phytochemical, with first characterization volatiles spontaneously emitted leaves flowers samples Italian origin Head-Space Solid Phase Micro-Extraction (HS-SPME) coupled Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS); 4) ecological, combination morphological phytochemical results literature data concerning ecology major volatile compounds. Three trichome morphotypes were observed, different distribution pattern organs: peltates short-stalked capitates, both ubiquitous whole plant, long-stalked exclusive floral whorls. Both capitates recognized as main sites terpene production. The HS-SPME analysis indicated that displayed most complex qualitative profile. Indeed, bouquets showed predominance sesquiterpene hydrocarbons shared compounds, i.e., β-caryophyllene, γ-muurolene, β-cubebene. From data, prevailing defensive action highlighted level, along potential seductive role played bouquet.