Cretan-homes, Crete property estate agents

‘Flowers of Crete’ 

Spring has started early this year, thanks to the warm weather.  However, the lack of rain seems to have affected the anemones, which are not so plentiful – at least not here in Lassithi.

They are, however, just as beautiful as ever and I have to stop myself photographing each one I find.  The colours are so variable and vibrant – from fuschia to the deepest purple.  Absolutely stunning, as you can see from this picture.

Anemone coronaria – the Crown Anemone            © Flowers of Crete

Another anemone which seems more prolific this year is the little white or mauve Anemone hortensis ssp. heldreichii.  The pink or mauve variants seem to be more common in the east of the island. This pretty flowers is endemic to the Cretan area and can also be found on Karpathos.

 
Anemone hortensis ssp. heldreichii,

This spring the orchids are also putting in an early appearance.  One of my special favourites is the tall Barlia Robertiana or Robert’s Giant Orchid – and it can indeed grow very tall.  If you find this flower, take time to look closely and the beautiful colour variations and the superb single blossoms on each spike. 

Barlia robertiana – Robert’s Giant Orchid  ©Flowers of Crete

 Many of the ‘fusca’ ophrys are appearing now – part of the orchid family – there are many species on Crete and, as they tend to intermingle, it is often difficult to make an accurate identification.  I have photographed two species this year – Ophrys messaritica ( a rare endemic ophrys thought to grow only on the Mesara Plain, but found on the road into Aghios Nikolaos and this one, which I think is Ophrys basilissa which flowers in February and can be recognised by its large flowers.

Ophrys basilissa                  © Flowers of Crete

And finally, I couldn’t resist including a picture of this Tangerine blossom. I’m sorry I can’t include its heavenly fragrance, which is particularly strong at night.The stark contrast between the glossy green leaves, the fierce orange of the fruit and the delicate ivory of the flowers is truly superb.

From now until the heat of summer, the flowers of Crete will be blooming thick and fast and I am looking forward with much anticipation to bringing you just a selection of their variety and beauty over the coming months.

 If anyone would like more information than is given here or would like to join one of my walks or excursions, please get in touch. I’d love to hear from you.

Citrus deliciosa            ©Flowers of Crete

Flowers of Crete is dedicated to the protection and conservation of the wild flowers and habitats of the island.  You can contact me – Julia Jones – at This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it or visit my new website which will be online shortly at www.flowersofcrete.info.