Plant species of the Algarve (Portugal)

In March 1999, we had the pleasure of visiting the Algarve, not only to search for plants but also to savor the picturesque countryside, delightful climate, and the diverse birdlife. Our journey began with a flight to Faro airport and from there, we boarded a train bound for the far west of the Algarve, reaching Vila Real De Santo António. As this was only our second visit to a Mediterranean region, our list of recorded plants may not be extensive. Nonetheless, we hope it can be of some assistance to fellow plant enthusiasts who wish to explore the area.

Useful identification keys

• B. Anderson and E. Anderson: Landscapes of Algarve (London 1996).
• D. J. Mabberley and P. J. Placito: Algarve plant and Landscapes (Oxford 1993).
• G. A. Vowles and R. S. Vowles: Breeding Birds of the Algarve (Algarve 1994).

Report of this BotanicalJourney

All visited locations are displayed on a Google Map.

Castro Marim

This region boasts an enchanting landscape with salt marshes and salt lakes, all enveloped by olive groves and chalky hills. During our visit we were captivated by the abundance of Flamingos, graceful Avocets, and Storks nesting in the olives. Additionally, we were fortunate to spot a few Stone Curlews among the diverse birdlife. Amidst our bird-watching adventures, we also dedicated time to photographing and documenting some remarkable plant species. We spotted the beautiful and large-flowered Convolvulus althaeoides, a small Iris called Gynandiris sisyrinchium and the Orobanche look-a-like Cistanche phelypaea (see picture); a parasitic plant that thrives on the salty bushes of the Chenopodiacae family. Among our botanical encounters, we encountered a puzzle-plant, later identified with the help of friends, as Cleome violacea.

Fuseta

The salty marshes along the south coast provide a bountiful habitat for shellfish, attracting those seeking to exploit this natural resource. During our explorations, we strolled along the small embankments in the area, and it was here that we encountered some intriguing and unusual plants. Among our findings were the bushy Solanum sodomaeum and the climbing Birthwort Aristolochia baetica. Amidst these unique encounters, we also came across some familiar plant species like Cotula coronopifolia, Misopates orontium and Vicia hybrida.
 

The chalky country-side inland, Sao Bartolomeo

We traveled by train to Sao Bartolomeo and walked through the small hills in the area. On this particular day, we came across a variety of plants, with many of them being quite common in this region. Some of the species we recorded include Ricinus communis, Lygos monosperma, Echium plantagineum, Calendula arvensis, Arctotheca calendula, Nonea vesicaria, Lathyrus annuus, Phlomis herba-venti, Spergularia purpurea, Ulex parviflorus, Scorpiurus muricatus, Sherardia arvensis and Anthyllis tetraphylla. Among these familiar plants, we were delighted to discover some special and unique finds. Notably, we encountered the endemic Astragalus lusitanicus and Genista hispanica. In a pine wood near the sea back in San Antonio we found Ophrys tenthredinifera.
 

Lagos

The eastern coast of the Algarve features majestic cliffs and numerous small beaches. We walked along the cliff tops and encountered a fascinating array of plant species. Our journey began with sightings of Hedypnois cretica, Astericsus maritimus, Smyrnium olusatrum, Anchusa italica and Fedia cornucopiae. As we continued we came across a hillside covered in an abundance of Chamaerops humilis with some Ophrys bombyliflora, Salvia verbenaca, Cistus albidus, Cistus salviaefolius, Bellis annua, Romulea bulbocodium and Schoenus nigricans (see picture). The sight of Medicago marina, Ononis natrix, Vinca minor and Smilax aspera added to the diversity of the plant life in this area.

Albufeira de Odiaxere

We decided to explore the inland and rented two bikes for our adventure. Initially, we faced some disappointment due to heavy traffic, but our luck turned when we stumbled upon a rare find - the beautiful Fritillaria lusitanica (see picture) growing in a small dry ditch near the road. Later that day we met a German botanist and his helpful wife, who were busy photographing orchids in the area. They were delighted to see this rare plant and generously shared their knowledge with us. With the botanist's assistance, we were able to identify other intriguing species, including Narcissus hedraeanthus, Anagallis monellii, Scilla italica and Ophrys speculum. Continuing our exploration, we went to Achbad, where we recorded more interesting species, such as Scorpiurus vermiculatus, Ornithopus compressus and Lepidium draba.

Serra de Monchique

On another day of our Botanical Journey, we set our sights on Serra de Monchique. To reach our destination, we took a public bus and then continued our expedition on foot through the open corkwood forests of Quercus suber. As we walked along, we spotted Primula vulgaris in full bloom. Upon reaching the summit of the hill, we encountered gusty winds, chilly temperatures, and a bustling crowd of people who had opted for taxis or buses to reach the top. Despite the lively atmosphere, the ascent and descent offered us a wonderful experience with scenic views and a refreshing ambiance.
 

Ilha da Calutra

During one of the final days of our stay, we embarked on a boat trip from Olhao to the beautiful Ilha da Culatra. This picturesque island is adorned with dunes and features a charming small village. We walked around the western half of the island and at the end of the day we were just in time to catch the last boat back. We still have got some magnificent shells from the very broad beaches of the Island. It was undeniably one of the most pleasant and cherished days of our entire holiday. However, the special Linaria we saw that day is still unnamed...
 

San Lorenzo Golf Club

A well-known destination for birdwatchers in the Algarve is San Lorenzo Golf Club near Faro. It offers a unique opportunity to observe the Purple gallinule, making it a popular spot for bird enthusiasts. The golf park's surroundings provide ample opportunities for leisurely walks.

The small lake, with its resident Purple gallinule, had a dedicated bird-watchers hut, so it was unmissable. During our visit, we were fortunate to spot not only the captivating Purple gallinule but also other fascinating birds like the Great Spotted Cuckoo and the Azure Winged Magpie. We also spotted some turtles relaxing in the sun, but after that we concentrated on plants again. We spotted Cistanche phelypaea, flourishing in a salt marsh. Additionally we recorded sightings of Linaria pedunculata (see picture below left) and Muscari comosum. The icing on the cake was discovering the delicate beauty of Leucojum trichophyllum (see picture below right), which provided a perfect ending to our memorable holiday.