Biodiversity Flora

The surroundings of Sinca Noua are characterised by an astonishing diversity of animals and plants, which can be explained by the complex geological substrate and the particularities of the relief. But above all it is the extensive small-scale farming in this transition zone between the Olt Depression and the Fagarash Mountains that conserved a variety of habitats.

Until now we could identify 545 plant species in the Sinca Depression – an impressive number for such a small area.

By mid June the hay-meadows turn into an ocean of colours and fragrances with Filipendula, Common Centaury, Fringed Gentian (Gentianella ciliata), Silver thistle, Rattle, and Chicory, to mention only a few. In higher altitudes one can meet the extravagant Martagon lily (Lilium martagon) and the Mountain Everlasting (Antennaria dioica).

Another remarkable highlight of the region are the orchids, that are represented with not less than 22 species, out of which most are endangered and protected. The hay-meadows with patches of bushes are with 12 species especially rich in orchids.

On a short summer-walk one can easily come along the sporadically distributed Bug Orchid (Orchis coriophora), the Elegant Laxflowered Orchid (Orchis laxiflora elegans), the Burnt Orchid (Orchis ustulata), the Marsh Helleborine (Epipactis palustris), or the Fragrant Orchid (Gymnadenia conopsaea).

The majority of the orchids in the area are listed on the Romanian Red List and are protected. In order to conserve the orchid populations it will be crucial to maintain the traditional land-use, including late mowing, moderate grazing, and allowance of shrubs.