Viola Scorpiuroides

It is listed in the 1995 Red Data Book of Rare and Endangered Species of Greece.

Viola scorpiuroides gets its epithet from the shape of the flowering shoot, resembling a scorpion tail. This African species holds great significance for Europe, as it is confined to the north-eastern tip of Crete, the Sitia Geopark, and Western Crete, as well as Kythera and Antikythera. It thrives in brushwood and rocky locations. Despite its small size, with flowers measuring just 1 cm, it emits a strong aroma. The blooming period occurs from January to March-April.

It is listed in the 1995 Red Data Book of Rare and Endangered Species of Greece.

Photos: Vangelis Perakis Sitia Geopark Coordinator