Viola delphinantha

It is a species found in cracks and crevices of limestone rocks in the mountainous and sub-alpine zone. In Paggaio, it mainly appears at altitudes above 1,600 m asl., although it may appear a little lower, where the microclimatic conditions favor it.

A plant with a restricted distribution and a limited number of individuals. Perennial chasmophyte, with a wooden base, which forms semi-shrubs, with numerous upright flowers, smooth stems up to 5-30 cm long. Its leaves are quite narrow and look like needles (narrowly lanceolate), sharply at apex. Its flowers are very characteristic. 1-3 are grouped together in each stem, and they have long stalk and a special red-violet color. Structurally, flowers have, in proportion to the rest of it, five large petals, the lower of which extends backwards like a long tail (key), usually deep red. Its name is due to the special morphology of the spur, which resembles the shape of a dolphin. It flowers from May to early July, depending on the altitude. It is an endemic species of the Balkans, with the northernmost area of its distribution being Mount Orvilos, just a few kilometers inside the Bulgarian territory. Most of the populations of the species occur in limestone mountains of Greece. It is a calciphilous species, resistant to stress from the conditions prevailing in its environment. Sensitive to extreme temperatures.

Its small geographical distribution and population, combined with its reduced competitiveness, make it a special species for Paggaio. Although the species is not collected by humans and is not harmed by grazing, it could become extinct from the mountains if any action could cause the destruction of the specific rocky areas where it is encountered.

LC-Least Concern

Assigned to the “LC-Least Concern” category by IUCN. It is included in the table of plant species of Presidential Decree 67/81 (F.E.K. 23 / A / 30-01-1981) and in the Bern Convention. Its importance was recognized by the EU, which included the species in the 92/43/EEC Directive.