Alyssum simplex

Άλυσσον το απλό

Etymology of Alyssum simplex: "Alysson" derives from Ancient Greek "ἄλυσσον" [alysson] from the prefix "-ά" meaning "without" +‎ "λύσσα" meaning "rabies". Hence "ἄλυσσον" means "cure for rage". It basically refers to the ancient belief that this plant could cure madness. Modern Latin "simplex", derives from Latin "simplus" which means "simple", because it is unbranched.

Nine Alyssum species have been so far discovered in the Cypriot habitat.

Alyssum simplex is encountered at medium altitudes of 350–1075 metres in central mountainous Cyprus. Its flowering period is between January and May.

How to identify Alyssum simplex:

Alyssum simplex is similar to A. strigosum, A. minutum, A. foliosum. Simplex and strigosum have a stellate-pilose silicle; minutum and foliosum have a glabrous silicle.

A. simplex has a stellate-pilose style; its fruits are with a uniform indumentum of stellate hairs. Alyssym strigosum has a glabrous style; its fruits are with a dimorphic indumentum of long, simple or forked hairs, and shorter stellate hairs.