It boasts an exquisite aroma and is also used for medicinal purposes.
Cretan Rockrose (Cistus creticus) is a small, bushy, evergreen shrub.
A perennial aromatic shrub, it bears pink or, less commonly, white flowers, blooming from March to June.
It boasts an exquisite aroma and is also used for medicinal purposes.
The stem and leaves of the plant contain a balsamic resin. According to the Region of Crete, this resin is secreted by the glandular hairs of the leaves and exhibits potent antimicrobial and primarily antileukemic properties. The resin also provides positive effects against insomnia, toothache, and tetanus. Additionally, a decoction made from the fruits of the plant is used to alleviate diarrhoea, and its leaves are utilised for brewing an aromatic tea.
Photos 1-2: Trikali, M. / Natural History Museum of Crete – University of Crete
Photo 3: Trichas,A. / Natural History Museum of Crete – University of Crete
The flora of Crete
Greek Sage
Cretan Oregano or Cretan Marjoram
Colchicum Balansae - Balansa Colchico
Cretan Zelkova
Carob Tree (Ceratonia Siliqua)
The Cretan Date Palm
Kermes Oak (Quercus Coccifera)
Ironwort
Sand Lily, Sea Lily (Pancratium Maritimum)
Cretan Cyclamen
The Cretan Cephalanthera
Dittany
Phoenician Juniper and Large-Fruited Juniper
Gallipoli Rose
Natural Monuments
Lilac Wonder (Tulipa doerfleri)
The Ancient Olive Tree of Vouves
The Olive Tree of Azorias
Olive tree of Samonas
Thyme
Oregano
Camomile
Mint
Preserving the Heritage: Ancient Olive Trees of Crete
The Ancient Olive Tree of Vrysses, Amari
Bali's Ancient Olive Tree: Documented in Preservation Efforts
Gra Elia (The Old Olive Tree)
The Ancient Olive Tree of Kato Asites: Host to the 1st Olive Festival
Sitia's Ancient Olive Tree: A Record of Preservation Initiatives
Asperula Crassula
Carlina diae, Carlina of Dia
Anthemis Filicaulis, Slender-stemmed Chamomile
Dianthus Fruticosus Subsp. Sitiacus
Silene Holzmannii
Carlina Sitiensis
Bellevalia Sitiaca
Limonium Sitiacum
Viola Scorpiuroides
The Ancient Olive Tree of Kakodiki
Laurel
Rosemary
Common Basil
Honeysuckle
Oat
Chaste tree
Myrtle
Ophrys Sitiaca
The Ancient Olive Tree of Viannos: Unveiling a Treasured Discovery
The Ancient Olive Tree of Fourfouras
Mandrake
Androcymbium Rechingeri
Autumn Lady's-tresses
Tournefort Crocus
Orchis Sitiaca
Ancient Olive Tree in Kouroutes
Mediterranean Meadow Saffron