Calling all phytophiles! Let's explore the vibrant and diverse plants of southern Italy, from prickly pears to lemon trees. Come and immerse yourself in the region's rich flora and botanical charm.
When you envision southern Italy, what springs to mind? The sun-kissed beaches, the ancient ruins, the delectable cuisine? While these are undeniably part of the allure, there's another facet of the area that's equally captivating: its rich, varied flora, a world waiting to be explored. AKA: The plants of southern Italy.
As I meandered through Calabria, Basilicata, and Puglia these past couple of summers, I have been captivated by the vibrant plants—after all, I’m missing my own little makeshift greenhouse at home, that I currently have multiple people caring for while I’m away (big, big shout out to Tamara and my nonna for keeping them alive!). While I know winter will soon be setting in soon here in Italy, it makes me dream about the warmer days when all the plants were in full bloom, and it seemed like the cold weather was eons away.
Curious about this part of southern Italy's charm? Let me show you some of my favourites.
Prickly Pears (Fichi d’India): One of the Famous Plants of Southern Italy
Meet the prickly pear, or fichi d'india, as the locals call it (although they are not Indian figs, as the Italian translation suggests—they were actually brought back from the Americas by Italian explorer Christopher Columbus, who thought he had actually landed in India). These spiny, vibrant cacti dot the landscape of the Italian south almost everywhere you look. What fascinated me most was how these plants thrive in Calabria's arid, rocky soil, adding splashes of colour with their bright yellow, orange, and red fruits as August sets in and the plant ripens.
The taste is a blend of sweetness with a hint of tang, almost like a natural candy. Locals often use them in everything from jams to liqueurs, showcasing their versatility. The prickly pear also boasts health benefits, as it’s rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. It's no wonder these plants are so loved here!
Whether walking along small-town streets or dusty trails, you’ll find these cacti all over and won’t be able to resist trying one of these exotic fruits…but watch out! Harvesting them requires skill and caution due to their tiny, hair-like spines that can be super annoying. When picking them from the cactus in late August, do so early in the morning when the little spikes are softest. Use thick gloves or tongs to rotate the red fruit and pluck it from the plant before soaking it in water for a while, then carefully peeling off the skin. They’re delicious, and something my Maltese grandmother always used to eat—the plants continue to grow further south, including on the tiny Mediterranean island country of Malta (where they’re called bajtar tax-xewk).
Lemon Trees (Alberi di Limoni)
While the plant can be found across the country, Puglia's landscape is punctuated by rows upon rows of lemon trees (alberi di limoni), their bright yellow fruits standing out against the deep green leaves. The sight of these trees, especially when they're in full bloom, is nothing short of magical, and the air is filled with a citrusy fragrance that instantly fills your nose with its distinctive scent.
Lemons in Puglia are not just for making the world-famous Limoncello liqueur, though that is certainly a highlight. These versatile fruits are used in a myriad of ways, from culinary focal points to traditional remedies—rich in vitamin C, they are great for boosting the immune system. It's no wonder that they're one of the more popular plants of Southern Italy.
The first time I saw a lemon tree in person (strange to say that) was when I went to Italy for the first time in 2019, and I was so excited to see it. For a Canadian, seeing tropical plants is such a novelty. Plus, when you taste one right off the tree, you’ll find they’re not as tart as the lemons you might try from a grocery store in North America!
Poppy (Papavero)
As I journeyed through southern Italy, the sight of bright red poppies (papaveri) swaying in the breeze became familiar and welcome, especially because they’re my favourite flower. These wildflowers add a splash of colour to the landscape, their delicate petals contrasting beautifully with the greens and browns of the countryside on which they grow.
Poppies have a romantic, almost poetic presence in the region, often associated with remembrance and peace, and their beauty has inspired countless artists and writers. For me, they reminded me of the simple, natural beauty that southern Italy has to offer. Walking through fields dotted with these flowers felt like stepping into a painting. But poppies are not just pretty faces; they actually have practical uses, too.
The seeds are used in baking, adding a nutty flavour to breads and pastries. Poppy oil, rich in essential fatty acids, is prized for its health benefits. It's fascinating how these seemingly delicate flowers can be so robust and versatile! However, if anyone can figure out how to keep them alive in a glass jar for longer than an afternoon without wilting, I would love to know because mine always seem to die when I pick them. (Yes, I just want them for their aesthetic.)
Pomegranate Trees (Alberi di Melograni)
Pomegranate trees (alberi di melograni, in Italian) are common in southern Italy; their branches are heavy with ruby-red fruits in late summer and into autumn. These trees are not only beautiful but also deeply symbolic, representing fertility, prosperity, and abundance in many European countries. The vibrant colour of the pomegranates is a gorgeous sight, especially during the harvest season when they’re at their most vibrant.
The first time I tasted a fresh pomegranate in Calabria, I was blown away by its sweet, tangy flavour. The juicy seeds, or arils, are like little bursts of sunshine, and it's easy to see why they are so prized. Pomegranates are used in various dishes, from salads to desserts, and their juice is a popular drink, known for its antioxidant properties.
I’ve also read that they are often given as gifts during the holidays in different countries, symbolizing good luck and new beginnings. It's amazing how a single fruit can carry so much meaning and history. In southern Italy, the pomegranate is more than just a fruit; it's a cultural icon.
Aloe Vera (aloe)
Among the myriad of plants in southern Italy, aloe vera (aloe) stands out for its remarkable healing properties and striking appearance. As I travelled through Calabria, Basilicata, and Puglia, I encountered numerous aloe plants thriving in the Mediterranean climate, their thick, succulent leaves reaching towards the sun. These resilient plants are a staple in many local gardens, valued not just for their beauty, but also for their incredible medicinal benefits. Let me tell you: These plants get massive in the wild and put the little aloe plant I have in my bedroom at home in Toronto to shame.
The gel extracted from the leaves is a natural remedy for burns, cuts, and skin irritations, often known as a miracle cure by locals. Its soothing, cooling effect is perfect for sun-kissed skin, making it a popular choice for natural skincare products. Not to mention how aloe vera juice is consumed for its detoxifying and digestive benefits, adding another layer to its versatility (I personally don’t like the flavour, but many people do). It’s no wonder that it plays such a significant role in southern Italians' daily lives and wellness practices.
Christmas Cactus or Crab Cactus (Cactus di Natale)
The Christmas Cactus, or Crab Cactus (Cactus di Natale), is a beautiful plant that adds another touch of colour to the southern Italian landscape. These cacti are known for their vibrant, fuchsia-coloured flowers that bloom around the holiday season, making them a popular decorative plant. While I have one of these in a pot back home, it was incredible to see them outside in Italy, where they adorned windowsills and gardens. Their flowers are striking, almost surreal, and they seem to defy the usual expectations of what a cactus should look like.
What makes the Christmas Cactus even more fascinating is its hardiness; despite its delicate appearance, it thrives in the Mediterranean climate, requiring minimal care. It's a perfect example of how nature can surprise us in the best ways. These cacti are not just a sight to behold—they are a testament to the resilience and adaptability of southern Italy's flora.
Swiss Cheese Plant (Pianta Groviera)
In the lush gardens and patios of southern Italy, the Monstera Deliciosa, often called the Swiss Cheese Plant (Pianta Groviera in Italian), adds a touch of tropical elegance to the already diverse flora. Its large, glossy leaves with characteristic splits and holes create a striking visual contrast against the backdrop of traditional Mediterranean plants. I was pleasantly surprised to find this exotic beauty thriving in the warm, humid environments of Calabria, Basilicata, and Puglia. I have one at home, but they’re so much larger and imposing in the wild.
During a visit to Basilicata, I spotted several Monstera plants (I also saw some even further, in Taormina, Sicily!). Its presence in southern Italy reflects the region’s openness to embracing and integrating diverse plant species, enriching the local horticultural landscape. The sight of these magnificent leaves swaying gently in the breeze adds tropical flair to one’s Italian adventure, a reminder of the region's unique blend of tradition and adaptability.
All in All
Southern Italy is a treasure trove of natural beauty, and its diverse plant life is a testament to the region's rich ecological tapestry. From the spiny prickly pears of Calabria to the fragrant lemon trees of Puglia, each plant tells its own story, adding to the region's charm and magic.
So, why not embark on your own botanical adventure? Explore the lush landscapes, taste the fruits of the land, and immerse yourself in the vibrant flora that makes southern Italy so unique.
They're the same as here in Phoenix! Carol Colborn