FLOR A
Laconian thyme
Thymus laconicus Its similarity to the prolific conehead thyme (Coridothymus capitatus) that is found all over southern Greece and its own rarity have kept this species practically unknown until recently. However, if you know what you’re looking for, it can be found in the fallow fields and rocky shrub land of the southeastern tip of the Peloponnese at Cape Maleas. It prefers areas that are cooled by the sea breeze, though it also has a remarkable tolerance for drought, and can be found at altitudes of up to 900 meters.
Mount Athos immortelle
Helichrysum sibthorpii Despite strict regulations banning its collection and its own ability to hide at altitudes of 2,000 meters in inaccessible crags on sacred Mt Athos in northern Greece, this rare species of immortelle could, until a few years ago, be purchased in pots online. Any plant at risk of extinction inevitably stirs the interest of collectors hunting down rare floral treasures. Part of this plant’s popularity, and one of the reasons why it struggles to survive, is its impressive appearance when in bloom during the summer months; it exemplifies alpine beauty. When carefully dried, the plant keeps for a long time and maintains its delicate fragrance, a trait that reminds us of all the wonderful properties and rare powers contained in its blooms. Judging by close relatives of the same genus, we can surmise that its exceptionally fragrant essential oils are beneficial to the skin, and particularly older skin, protecting and healing it from the ravages of time. It seems a good idea to cultivate this wonderful shrub near its native lands, not only to ensure its survival but also to tap into its rejuvenating powers. 46
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It has multiple branches, a woody stem and an incredible heady aroma, which explains the frenzy of bees seeking the nectar of its rosy blooms at the start of summer. There have been no comprehensive studies of this plant so far, but this is certainly about to change, as there is little doubt that it has significant antimicrobial and expectorant properties as well as digestive uses. This, combined with the fact that it is rare yet grows with relative ease, suggests that Laconian thyme has a bright commercial future.