
Crete is home to the largest palm forest in Europe.
The Cretan date palm (Phoenix theophrasti), also known as the Cretan palm and locally known as Theofrastus’ palm is a rare endemic species of the Aegean Sea, found in various regions including Crete, some Aegean islands, and Antalya.
Palm trees flourish in sandy valleys or rocky coastal areas. The species was newly described in 1967 by Greuter and was named in honour of the father of botany, Theophrastus (372-287 BC), who was the first to mention the existence of the palm tree in Crete.
This tree can grow up to a height of 15 metres and typically generates numerous offshoots. Interestingly, its date-like fruits are not consumed. Presently, there is growing concern about the future of this palm tree, given that other palm species have faced significant devastation due to the red palm weevil (Rhynchophorus ferrugineus), an invasive species imported from Africa.
In Crete, you can find the largest palm forest in Europe, situated in Vai, Sitia. Additionally, there are other palm forests in Agios Nikitas of Asterousia and in Martsalos Gorge.
Photo: By maulejobs Via create.vista

The flora of Crete

Greek Sage

Cretan Oregano or Cretan Marjoram

Colchicum Balansae - Balansa Colchico

Cretan Zelkova

Carob Tree (Ceratonia Siliqua)

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

Cretan Rockrose
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