2023Flora - First Day Cover

Edelweiss (Leontopodium alpinum) belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is a rare plant, protected throughout Europe, and is a symbol of mountain regions. Its small greenish-white flowers are clustered in star-shaped groups, while horizontal leaves are located on the outer part. The flat and upright stem grows up to 20 cm in height. The basal leaves are spear-shaped, alternate, and elongated, with more hairs for protection against cold weather and water loss. It reproduces through seeds but can also regenerate from its roots. It grows on inaccessible mountain cliffs.