Σιδερίτης, Σιδερίτις η διάτρητη
Etymology of Sideritis perfoliata: The word "sideritis" derives from the Ancient Greek "σιδηρῖτις", meaning "of iron". An explanation for the name given to this genus derives from the fact that in ancient medicine, sideritis was a generic reference for plants capable of healing wounds made from iron weapons. Furthermore, Dioscorides advised the herbal infusion of "mountain tea" to soldiers as a rejuvenating, regenerating aid to help them heal quicker and fuller. However, this does not justify its onomatology. A more convincing theory for the etymology of Sideritis, making sense, supports that the name refers to the shape of the sepal which resembles the tip of an (iron) spear or arrow of Greek antiquity. Latin "perfoliata" derives from "per+foliata" [through+leaves], meaning that the leaves are pierced by the stem.
There are three Sideritis kinds/species growing without human intervention in the Cypriot nature of which the one is growing exclusively in occupied north Cyprus.
Sideritis perfoliata is an indigenous but non-endemic plant growing exclusively in Southwestern Cyprus. It is not encountered coastally as it grows at an altitude between 375–1100 metres. It can be considered an uncommon plant in the Cypriot habitat. It is mostly encountered on roadsides, Pinus brutia forest, garigues, and stony hillsides. Sideritis perfoliata is a perennial, aromatic and herbaceous plant growing up to 100 cm high. Its flowering period is between May and July.
