Kundmannia sicula

Perennial of the Apiaceae family, native to the western Mediterranean region, found in Sicily, southern Italy, Spain, the Maghreb, and Mediterranean islands. It grows in open scrublands, rocky slopes, dry wastelands, and edges of maquis, on well-drained calcareous or siliceous substrates, in full sun.

It forms a bushy clump, with stems branching from the base, reaching 60 to 100 cm in height. The foliage is finely cut, a bright green, reminiscent from afar of fennel. The umbels, numerous and generously branched, bear small bright yellow flowers gathered in tight and regular umbellules, creating a dense and luminous yellow cloud particularly striking in full bloom.

What immediately strikes in the field is the intensity of the yellow and the profusion of umbels that literally invade the plant, making it visible from afar in the scrubland. The early spring flowering makes it one of the most remarkable Apiaceae of the Mediterranean basin.

In its natural habitat, its flowering extends from April to June depending on altitude and exposure. In cultivation, it generally blooms in May-June.

It requires a poor to moderately fertile soil, perfectly drained, in a hot and sunny exposure. Very resistant to summer drought once established, it is suitable for Mediterranean dry gardens, sunny slopes, and large characterful rockeries.