The study of Cyprus' flora is one of the most important activities of the Department of Forests. As part of this effort, plants are collected to enrich the department's herbarium, systematic data collection on the flora is conducted, and rare and endangered species are monitored. This includes species listed in Annexes II and IV of the Habitats Directive (92/43/EEC) and species included in the Red Data Book of the Flora of Cyprus. This activity contributes to forming a more complete picture of Cyprus' flora and, in turn, supports conservation and protection efforts.

As of 2019, a total of 1,649 native species and subspecies have been recorded in Cyprus, along with 254 introduced (acclimatized foreign) species. Additionally, the flora includes 43 hybrids and 85 species of uncertain status.

Endemic Plants of Cyprus

The endemic plants of Cyprus, meaning those found exclusively on the island, total 141 species and subspecies. The endemism rate is 7.15% at the species level and 8.55% at the subspecies level.

The Troodos and Pentadaktylos mountain ranges are centers of endemism.

• In the Troodos range, 102 endemic species and subspecies (72.3% of the total endemics) have been recorded, of which 47 are strictly local endemics (limited to this mountain range). Examples include Cedrus brevifolia (Cyprus cedar), Quercus alnifolia (golden oak), Erysimum kykkoticum, Ranunculus kykkoensis, Crocus cyprius, Corydalis rutifolia, Onosma troodi, Nepeta troodi, and Alyssum chondrogynum.
• In the Pentadaktylos range, 61 endemic species and subspecies (43.3% of the total endemics) have been recorded, with 14 being strictly local endemics. Notable species include Brassica hilarionis, Delphinium caseyi, Dianthus cyprius, Onosma caspitosa, and Sideritis cypria.

Other significant areas of endemism in Cyprus include:

• Akamas Peninsula, home to 43 endemic species (30.5% of total endemics), with two being strictly local (Centaurea akamantis, Tulipa akamasica).
• Vouni Panagias, despite its small size, hosts 37 endemic species (26% of total endemics).

Threatened Species

According to the Red Data Book of the Flora of Cyprus, 238 species (14.4% of the native flora) have been classified as threatened (Critically Endangered, Endangered, and Vulnerable), while 23 species have been classified as Regionally Extinct.

Source: www.moa.gov.cy/forest