The Flowers And Trees Of Büyükada – OpEd
When I think of Büyükada, the first image that comes to mind is the yellow mimosa. Then come the red bougainvillea, the pink oleander, and the white hydrangeas blooming in the gardens. In spring, the slopes of Kadıyoran Hill are covered with these blossoms. It saddens me to see people picking these flowers to make bouquets and sell them at the pier. Flowers are most beautiful where they grow — on their branches, in the soil, accompanied by their own breeze and the songs of birds.
In the forests and meadows of Hristos Hill, short-stemmed wildflowers bloom in shades of yellow, red, and blue. This humble natural cover lends a gentle touch of color to the island’s quietness. Each flower is part of the calm and harmony that defines the spirit of Büyükada’s nature.
The Trees of Büyükada
Büyükada’s vegetation is shaped not only by its flowers but also by its majestic trees. The island’s higher elevations — particularly Hristos Hill and the Nizam ridges — are covered with Turkish Red Pine (Pinus brutia) and Stone Pine (Pinus pinea) forests. These evergreens remain lush throughout the year, their resin scent blending with the island air.
Along the inner roads, cypress trees (Cupressus sempervirens) stand like silent sentinels, often surrounding old cemeteries. Acacia trees fill the spring air with their sweet yellow fragrance. Laurel (Laurus nobilis) and olive trees carry the warm spirit of the Mediterranean, while mulberry, plum, fig, quince, apricot, and pomegranate trees still thrive in the gardens of old mansions.
In front of some houses, ancient stone pines and gnarled mastic trees still stand — quiet witnesses to the island’s history. It could be said that anyone who sits under their shade, reads a book, or parks a bicycle nearby unconsciously absorbs a sense of peace from their presence.
Notes
1. Mimosa (Acacia dealbata) – One of Büyükada’s signature flowers; it blooms in late February and early March.
2. Bougainvillea (Bougainvillea) – A climbing ornamental plant that adorns island houses with its vivid summer colors.
3. Oleander (Nerium oleander) – A striking but poisonous plant typical of the Mediterranean climate.
4. Hristos Hill – One of the island’s highest points; its surrounding forests are rich in natural plant diversity.
5. Turkish Red Pine and Stone Pine – The two primary pine species forming the island’s forest structure; Stone Pine seeds (pine nuts) have notable economic value.
6. Cypress and Laurel – Commonly found around cemeteries and religious sites; they are emblematic trees of the Mediterranean landscape.
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