Wild flowers of Cyprus

March, April and May are the best months for those who delight in the fantastic wildflowers which abound in the countryside and along the shores of our lovely island.

1/The first picture is one that I took yesterday, 1st Feb 2009 while strolling along the shore at Paphos

This pretty anemone is abundant all along the shore at this time of year.

2/The wild garlic (Allium Neapolitanum)announces its presence even before you can see it, with its pungent smell. Large swathes of this pretty plant cover the meadows . The name for the Village of Arkoudalia is said to be taken from the local dialect for wild garlic which grows in abundance in the surrounding fields.

3/The Giant Orchid (barlia robertiana ) is found from January to March in shrubland and woodland up to an altitude of 600m

4/Elephant Garlic (Allium ampeloprasum) is very distincitve which its huge purple pompom flowers which are seen along every road side form April to June.

5/ Wild Narcissus. This pretty little member of the daffodil is found in the foothills in the spring.

6/  Bee orchid.  There are several subspecies of bee orchids to be found on the island. These beautiful and rare flowers are a real joy to see if you are lucky enough to spot one.

More flowers to come soon