Sea lily (Pancratium Maritimum) 

The sea lily is found around the Mediterranean coast. It is a sand-lover, setting its roots in sand dunes. It characterizes the landscape of Limnos and is under protection, as it is threatened by the continuous development of tourism.

In Greece, reports of the species’ presence date back to prehistoric times, as the earliest depiction of it was found in a fresco in the palace of Knossos on Crete. It is also represented on ancient sarcophagi, linking it to religious worship. Legend has it that it sprouted from Aphrodite's footsteps when she emerged from the waves of the sea.

It is a bulbous perennial, belonging to the Amaryllis family. It features fleshy leaves and 3 to 12 large, white, crown-shaped flowers springing from its thick stem. which produce a wonderful, characteristic, sweet aroma. The plant is also known as the ‘sea daffodil’ and flowers from August to October each year, which is why it is known to many as the “Easter Lily”. Its flowers half open before the sun sets, reaching the peak of their opening as the night progresses.