Distribution of the species
Although it is not a very rare species in the rest of the mountains of Eastern Macedonia (Falakro, Orvilos, Menoikio), the distribution of this impressive species on Mt. Paggaio is restricted. We will find it in subalpine grasslands above the tree-line, mainly near the mountain peaks. Its distribution area is not very large and it can be found in the form of isolated individuals.
Description of the species (biological and ecological features)
The number of its individuals on Mount Paggaio is generally small. A perennial plant, with a bulbous root system, having the ability to live for several years. Its leaves are light green, lanceolate, coming out mainly from the base of the stem, with fewer along the rest of it. Its flowers are characteristic, sprouting in groups of 1-3 (rarely up to 6) at the top of the stem and bending downwards. They are conical or bell-shaped, deep reddish-brown to reddish-brown, and unlike in many other species of the genus, they are not tessellated. The margins on the outer surface of the petals (here called tepals) are often yellow, while they are yellow or orange on the inside. It occurs on the mountains of Eastern Macedonia and Southern Bulgaria. One of the few species of the genus in Northern Greece, highly important for this reason. It is found in dry, stony places in mountainous or subalpine grasslands at altitudes from 1,300-1,850 m asl. (marginally we can find it from 1,000 m). It prefers schists or limestone. If we want to see it in flower, we will have to climb up to the mountainous zone during the months May or June.
No threat to its population has been observed on Mt. Paggaio. However, due to its small population size and the relatively limited area in which the species is distributed, it may be threatened in the near future. It is an impressive plant, and thus, any extensive collection would lead to a decrease in its population.
Conservation status
Vulnerable.
Conservation state
It is protected by Bern Convention for the protection of the Wild Life and the Natural Environment, whereas moreover it is listed in Annex IV of the 92/43/EEC Directive assigned to the “Vulnerable” category by the IUCN. Moreover, it is listed in the Worldwide plant list of the UN that should be protected, and also as “Other Important Plant Species of Greece” by the 92/43/EEC Directive.