Silene saxifraga

It has been recorded around the area of the peaks of Mt. Paggaio, at altitudes above 1,400 m, generally above the timberline. Moreover, it has been recorded in openings of beech forests.

It is a caespitose plant that forms hemispherical cushions. Flowering stems usually numerous and slender. Usually 1-2 flowers per stem, distinguished by the calyx that has visible nerves on the outer surface, while the petals are white, creamy to light pink on the upper surface, but greenish to brown-purple on the lower. The name of the species comes from the Latin words saxum, which means rock, stone, and the word frango, which means “break”, “rub”. This name was given because either of the habitat that it prefers or of the medicinal properties attributed to it. In Spain, it is widely used as a medicinal herb called Salsufragi and is thought to be able to “break” kidney, bile and bladder stones. It is found on rocky slopes, rock ledges and rocky sites in subalpine and alpine grasslands, on limestone and schist. It prefers high altitude areas, reaching up to 2,800 m asl., but often descends to 1,250 m asl. It flowers mainly in July and August.

Although its distribution is rather restricted on Mount Paggaio, no negative impact on its population has been recorded. Its habitats are not subject to high human impact.

It is listed as “Other Important Plant Species of Greece” by the 92/43/EEC Directive.

It is listed as “Other Important Plant Species of Greece” by the 92/43/EEC Directive, whereas moreover, it is included in the worldwide list of the UN concerning species that should be protected.