Λιθοδώρα η τριχωτή υποείδος η ποικιλόχρωμη, Γαουρόθρουμπος
Etymology of Lithodora hispidula subspecies versicolor: The genus name "Lithodora" derives from the Ancient Greek word "λίθος" [lithos] meaning stone and "δώρο" [doro] meaning a gift, hence "gift of the stone(s)", referring to the plant's preferred rocky habitats. "Hispidula" is the Latin female for "hairy", because the plant is generally hairy (branches, leaves, bracts and lobes), and "versicolor" means "various-colored", referring to the colour of its flowers.
Lithodora is a genus of only four species in the world, and in Cyprus, we find one subspecies.
Lithodora hispidula subsp. versicolor is an indigenous, near-endemic plant (a bush) of Cyprus, as it is also found only in Turkey and Syria. Lithodora is neither common nor rare in the Cypriot habitat. It is not encountered in the vast Mesaoria region, which covers the area from Morfou until Paralimni. It is found on rocky slopes, garigue, and open pine forests, at an altitude of up to 1025 metres. Lithodora hispidula subspecies versicolor's flowering period is from February until May.
