The hêro is known and celebrated as a flower of the Kurds. It is widespread in most regions of Kurdistan, especially from the south to the north of the Zagros. Because of its loveliness and delicacy it has long been on the lips of poets and singers, and its beauty makes it one of the most prized and striking of all flowers. It is also used to make some medicines. Every year the hêro grows back naturally from its own roots, and it is also grown from its seed.
Number of species
The Kurdish hollyhock is one main species, occurring in several colours, recorded under this scientific name. Several sister species, with their own names and colours, grow in other countries; all of them belong to the genus Alcea. The hêro is considered a flower characteristic of this region, the Zagros mountain range.
Season
Summer. The flowers open in Hezîran (June) and last until Tebax (August).
Written by Weysî Silêman Elî · Last updated 18 October 2026
