Exotic Vegetation

The Mediterranean climate in the Cote d'Azur does more than attract tourists. Thanks to 320 days of sunshine a year, moderate rainfall and mild winters; many imported plants have no problem flourishing in the land.

Palm Trees

The two most common palm species found in the French Riviera are date palms and Canary palms. The former variety has a smooth, tall trunk, whereas the latter is characterized by its short, scaly trunk. Brought in by the English in the 19th century, palm trees can be found gracing most Riviera resorts.

Citrus Trees

Although lemons, oranges and tangerines are not exclusive to Menton alone, this town seems to have the optimum microclimate for growing citrus plants. Apart from Menton, lemon and orange groves can also be found along the coast of Monaco, and between Cannes and Antibes.

Eucalyptus

These aromatic trees of Australian origin can sometimes be seen lining the roads of Southern France. The hardy evergreens thrive very well here, with the only thing missing being the resident koalas!

Mimosa

Another Australian native, this unique plant flowers during the winter season! As Mimosas naturalized particularly well in the Tanneron Massif, every January to March, the mountain slopes are cloaked with bright yellow blooms that smell as glorious as they look.

Bougainvillea

Bougainvilleas make a great choice for garden landscaping. What's unusual about this climbing plant is that it's actually the colorful "leaves" (bracts) surrounding the tiny flowers that make them so lovely - not the minute flowers themselves.

Agave

This spiny succulent from Mexico forms the base of many a Mexican drink, including the popular tequila. Known also as the sisal plant, it blooms only once in its lifetime, then dies. Other succulent plants introduced into the region include Barbary figs and some African varieties of cacti and aloes.

As you can see, many of these introduced species are grown both in local parks and private gardens, so keep a lookout for these exotic beauties during your visit. You don't need to go on long nature walks in order to appreciate the floral diversity of the French Riviera.