Endemic plants of Sierra Nevada: discover Granada’s unique flowers

At a perfect moment to reconnect with nature, Sierra Nevada in Granada becomes an ideal oasis to explore and discover outstanding examples of flora and fauna. Join us on the following journey through the best endemic plants of Sierra Nevada.

Vegetation of the Sierra Nevada National Park

Located in the Baetic Ranges, a mountain system in western Andalusia, Sierra Nevada is not only the perfect destination for skiing or mountaineering but also a paradise where you can reconnect with nature and learn about its many species of fauna and flora.

Regarding its vegetation, Sierra Nevada harbors a unique set of plants shaped by the whims of the climate and, above all, by altitude. In fact, Sierra Nevada features different vegetation zones depending on elevation. For example, in the lower areas of the range (below 700 meters), the more Mediterranean climate favors mastic scrub and rosemary. As we ascend into the lower mountain, honeysuckle and wild olive also appear.

At mid-altitude (between 1,300 and 1,900 meters), we reach the supramediterranean belt, where you’ll find plants such as spurge flax (torvisco) and butcher’s broom (rusco). At the summits, we encounter the characteristic high-mountain grasslands—along with one of the great icons of Granada’s flora: the snow star.

The snow star, a symbol of Sierra Nevada

Known scientifically as Plantago nivalis, the snow star is one of the natural jewels you can find in Sierra Nevada. Part of its fame and rarity is due to its habitat: it only grows above 3,000 meters, in the high-mountain grasslands of the range.

Like a flower that has melted into a snowflake, the snow star silvers the vast ground at the roof of Granada province. It is also known as the plant of eternal love, since it never truly “dries out,” adapted as it is to the extreme temperatures of this Andalusian landscape.

A unique plant to discover—like the most precious treasure—alongside other Sierra Nevada species.

This magical inhabitant of the Granada mountains maintains a steady life cycle until it bursts in spring, when delicate clusters of yellow flowers emerge.

Endemic plants of Sierra Nevada

Beyond the snow star, Sierra Nevada preserves many other examples of flora, most of which have recognized traditional uses and benefits.

The most common example is royal chamomile, used to soothe different digestive issues; blue thistle, considered a hepatoprotective plant that supports liver problems; and Sierra Nevada valerian, whose name says it all and which grows below 1,500 meters in elevation. The latter, as many will know, is a natural nerve soother and antispasmodic.

As you can see, nature stands ready to offer us answers to bring mind, body, and soul back into harmony.

To return us to the state we should never have left.