Although we passed the spring equinox, it still feels like we are in the heart of winter. Northern winds bring a humid cold to the Aegean, and it is expected to last into the end of March.
But even in this wintry weather certain plants thrive, triumphantly marking the beginning of spring.
Most of the flowers this time of year are yellow, and only our favas break the rule with their delicate whitish blossoms.
Next to them, native to Greece but easily cultivated all over the world, grows Cheiranthus cheiri, a kind of wallflower that thrives in rocky areas. We have the yellow brown version with its discreet sweet scent that some find reminiscent of anise or vanilla.
Our very aromatic irises are yellow too, as are the blooms of the huge Euphorbia dendroides that fills the southern slopes of Kea, along with the imposing Ferula communis that reaches the blue of the clear windy skies up above.
The rhizome Asplenium ceterach sprouts out from slots in the calcareous rocks and stonewalls of our property. Not impressive but with a strong character, you can admire their unassuming presence only if you know where to look for them.
Next to it, the tiny fern Allosurus acrosticus gently unfolds its new stalks. They will dry up in the hot summer months, and with the first rains and the return of humidity they will become green again, impressing us with their inconspicuous grace.
