Israel in Bloom: Negev Anemones, the Bahá’í Gardens and the Ein Gedi Oasis

Israel is a small country where Mediterranean coast, hills and desert follow each other within short distances, so its flowers are remarkably varied. In winter the south turns red with anemones, while oasis gardens stay green in the desert. Here is where plant lovers should go.

Bright flowers delivered: red roses and flower baskets.

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Flower destinations in Israel

• Red anemones. From January to early March, fields in the northern Negev turn scarlet with anemones, celebrated with the “Red South” festival. In 2013 the anemone was chosen as Israel’s national flower.
• The Bahá’í Gardens, Haifa. Nineteen terraces step down Mount Carmel towards the sea. The gardens are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and most areas are free to enter.
• Ein Gedi Botanical Garden. A kibbutz garden near the Dead Sea where hundreds of plant species from around the world grow in the desert.
• Jerusalem Botanical Gardens. Collections from different continents arranged by geographical zone.

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When to go for flowers

• January to March. Wildflower season: anemones, cyclamen, irises and lupins. The best time for walks in nature reserves.
• April and May. Still green, with citrus groves and roses in bloom, though the heat is building.
• Summer. The countryside dries out, but oasis gardens and Haifa stay green.

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Picking wildflowers in reserves is forbidden, so enjoy them and take photos. For gardens elsewhere, see famous gardens of the world and early spring flowers.

FAQ

What is Israel’s national flower?

The red anemone (Anemone coronaria), chosen in a nationwide vote in 2013.

How long do you need for the Bahá’í Gardens?

The free walk along the upper terraces takes about an hour; a tour of the whole slope takes longer and is best booked in advance.

Author: Maria Svitlovir

Graduated from Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Institute of Biology and Medicine (2001). BSc in Biology, MSc in Horticulture. Writes about plants, works at a garden centre selecting and repotting plants, and contributes to plant reference guides.

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