Didesmus aegyptius

Δίδεσμος ο αιγύπτιος

Etymology of Didesmus aegyptius: The name of the genus, "Didesmus", derives from the Ancient Greek "διά + δεσμός" [dia + desmos], meaning "connecting band", from the verb "διαδέω" [diadeo], meaning "bind all-around", referring to the linear band that appears in the middle of the fruit, encircling it, as if connecting two separate parts. Latinized "aegyptius" also comes from Ancient Greek "Αιγύπτιος" [Aegyptios], meaning "Egyptian", because the species is supposed to originate from Egypt.

This is the one and only Didesmus taxon that occurs in the wild Cypriot habitat.

Didesmus aegyptius, even though it is said to be absent only from northeastern and central mountainous Cyprus, it is an uncommon plant to encounter; this plant does not seem to exist in the Limassol district, if it does, it should exist in limited numbers in confined area(s). The specimens in the pictures were found in great numbers in Athalassa (Nicosia district). It grows up to an altitude of 300 metres. Its flowering period is between January and June.