Lunaria annua

Λουνάρια η ετήσια

Etymology of Lunaria annua: "Lunaria" is Latin and it means "moon-shaped", referring to the shape and appearance of this species' dried seedpods, which resemble a full moon. Latin "annua" means "annual" because the plant can complete its life cycle in a single year.

There are four Lunaria species in the whole world, this is the one and only species found in the wild Cypriot nature.

Lunaria annua is a rare plant that exists in the Troodos mountains, near running water. The one in the picture was seen at Tzelefos Bridge, Pafos. It is a naturalized non-invasive plant. Its flowering period is from April until May (it may be extended until July).