Lebanon, despite its small size, boasts remarkable botanical diversity due to its varied topography—from Mediterranean coastlines to mountain peaks reaching over 3,000 meters. This guide explores the country’s most notable flowers across different seasons and habitats.

Endemic and Near-Endemic Species

Lebanese Cyclamen (Cyclamen libanoticum)

One of Lebanon’s most treasured endemic species, this delicate cyclamen grows in the rocky limestone soils of Mount Lebanon. Its pale pink flowers with darker markings bloom in late winter to early spring (February-April), often emerging through snow. The heart-shaped leaves have distinctive silver markings.

Lebanon Violet (Viola libanotica)

This rare endemic violet grows at high elevations in the Lebanese mountains. Its deep purple flowers appear in spring among rocky outcrops and alpine meadows.

Spring Flowers (March-May)

Wild Tulips (Tulipa lownei and Tulipa montana)

These native tulips paint mountain meadows red and yellow in April and May. They’re considerably smaller than cultivated tulips but equally striking against the green hillsides.

Anemones

• Crown Anemone (Anemone coronaria): Brilliant red, purple, or white flowers carpet fields and roadsides
• Poppy Anemone (Anemone pavonina): Scarlet petals with dark centers create stunning displays

Irises

Lebanon hosts several iris species:

• Lebanese Iris (Iris cedretii): Endemic to cedar forests
• Nazareth Iris (Iris bismarckiana): Large purple flowers
• Yellow Iris (Iris pseudacorus): Found in wetland areas

Orchids

Over 50 orchid species grow wild in Lebanon, including:

• Bee Orchid (Ophrys apifera)
• Butterfly Orchid (Orchis papilionacea)
• Anatolian Orchid (Orchis anatolica)

Ranunculus (Ranunculus asiaticus)

These Persian buttercups display vibrant colors—yellow, orange, red, and white—in spring meadows and cultivated fields.

Summer Flowers (June-August)

Hollyhock (Alcea spp.)

Tall spikes of pink, white, and purple flowers grow wild along roadsides and in mountain villages.

St. John’s Wort (Hypericum libani)

This Lebanese species features bright yellow star-shaped flowers and grows in rocky mountain habitats.

Lavender (Lavandula stoechas)

Wild lavender blooms throughout the mountains, filling the air with fragrance.

Centaurea

Various cornflower and knapweed species add purple and pink hues to summer landscapes.

Autumn Flowers (September-November)

Autumn Crocus (Colchicum stevenii)

Delicate pink-purple flowers emerge from bare ground without leaves, creating carpets of color in mountain meadows.

Sea Daffodil (Pancratium maritimum)

White, fragrant flowers bloom on sandy beaches along Lebanon’s coast.

Mountain Flora (High Elevations)

Alpine Species

Above 2,000 meters, specialized alpine plants include:

• Mountain Avens
• Alpine Aster
• Saxifrages
• Mountain Primroses

Cedar Forest Understory

Beneath Lebanon’s famous cedars (Cedrus libani), shade-tolerant species thrive:

• Wood Anemone
• Forest Violets
• Wild Garlic (Allium spp.)

Coastal and Mediterranean Zone

Coastal Species

• Sea Lavender (Limonium spp.)
• Beach Morning Glory (Ipomoea pes-caprae)
• Chamomile varieties

Mediterranean Shrubland (Maquis)

• Rockrose (Cistus species): White and pink papery flowers
• French Lavender: Purple flower spikes
• Wild Sage (Salvia species)

Conservation Concerns

Many Lebanese wildflowers face threats from:

• Habitat loss due to urbanization
• Overgrazing by livestock
• Climate change affecting alpine species
• Overharvesting for medicinal use or ornamental trade
• Agricultural expansion

Several species, including the Lebanese Cyclamen and certain endemic irises, are considered vulnerable or endangered.

Best Locations for Wildflower Viewing

1. Shouf Biosphere Reserve: Diverse habitats from Mediterranean to alpine
2. Horsh Ehden Nature Reserve: Ancient forest with rich understory
3. Tannourine Cedar Forest: Spring wildflowers and endemic species
4. Ammiq Wetland: Water-loving species and migratory bird habitat
5. Jabal Moussa: Dramatic landscapes with Mediterranean flora
6. Qadisha Valley: Diverse elevation zones with varied flora

Seasonal Calendar

• February-March: Cyclamens, early bulbs, almond blossoms
• April-May: Peak wildflower season—tulips, anemones, irises, orchids
• June-July: Mountain meadows, high-altitude species
• August-September: Late summer bloomers, aromatic herbs
• October-November: Autumn crocuses, last coastal flowers

Cultural Significance

Flowers hold special meaning in Lebanese culture:

• Cedar flowers: Symbol of national identity
• Orange blossoms: Used in traditional celebrations and cuisine
• Roses: Damascus roses historically cultivated for rosewater
• Jasmine: Associated with hospitality and welcome

Lebanon’s floral heritage reflects its position as a biodiversity hotspot where Mediterranean, mountain, and Near Eastern ecosystems converge, creating a botanical treasure trove worth protecting for future generations.