Perennial or sub-shrub of the Asteraceae family, characteristic of the sandy and gravelly coasts of the western Mediterranean and adjacent Atlantic coasts, confined to the pioneering zones of the high beach, embryonic dunes, and strandlines, where it is among the rare species capable of colonizing particularly unstable substrates exposed to saline spray.
Spreading to semi-erect habit, forming diffuse clumps of 20 to 50 cm, with prostrate or ascending stems, woody at the base, densely branched. Fleshy and succulent foliage, a remarkable adaptation to coastal conditions, finely pinnatisect with short and obtuse segments, from grayish-green to whitish depending on the density of the woolly tomentum covering the entire plant, providing effective protection against desiccation and spray. Pronounced aromatic scent when crushed, reminiscent of chamomile. Solitary terminal capitula, with spreading white ligules and a convex yellow disc, 2 to 4 cm in diameter, borne on sturdy peduncles. Flowering extends from spring to summer.
Species protected in several countries due to the dramatic regression of its coastal habitats under the impact of tourist traffic, coastal development, and dune stabilization. Strictly halophilic and psammophilic plant, difficult to maintain sustainably in ordinary cultivation due to its highly specialized ecological requirements. Considerable heritage and conservation interest as a component of Mediterranean coastal pioneer plant communities, in marked decline throughout its range.