Italy 1966 Trees & Flowers

 

Italian Stone Pine on the Palatine Hill

Pinus pinea, also known as stone pine or Roman pine but probably best known as umbrella pine, has epitomised the Eternal City for centuries. 

This coniferous tree originated in north Africa and was imported by the Etruscans.  Roman pines grow fast and,  water-resistant because of their resin.  The fruit of this tree: pine nuts, used today particularly in the production of pesto.

Olive at Villa Adriana, Tivoli

The extra virgin olive oil known as Olea Hadriani (Latin for Hadrian’s Oil) has long been produced from the olive trees spread over the Villa Adriana archaeological area in Tivoli, near Rome. The oil was included in the PGI Olio di Roma label.

Golden Marguerite

Anthemis is a genus of aromatic flowering plants in the family Asteraceae, closely related to Chamaemelum, and like that genus, known by the common name chamomile; some species are also called dog-fennel or mayweed. Anthemis are native to the Mediterranean region and southwest Asia east to Iran. A number of species have also become naturalized in the United Kingdom and other parts of the world.

Carnation

Dianthus caryophyllus  commonly known as carnation or clove pink, is a species of Dianthus native to the Mediterranean region. Its exact natural range is uncertain due to extensive cultivation over the last 2,000 years. Carnations are prized for their vibrant colors, delicate fringed petals, and enchanting fragrance.