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.
Kurdish hollyhock
- Scientific
- Alcea kurdica
- English
- Kurdish hollyhock
- Kurmanji
- Hêro
Classification
- Family
- Malvaceae
Growth
- Height
- 150–200 cm
- Season
- Spring
Habitat
The Zagros mountain range; now also widespread around the world.
More information
npgsweb.ars-grin.govNumber 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.
Source
Weysî Silêman Elî, Kulîlk û Gul bi Kurdî (Flowers and Roses in Kurdish), Flora Kurdica, 2025, lesson 16.
Kurdish hollyhock
- Scientific
- Alcea kurdica
- English
- Kurdish hollyhock
- Kurmanji
- Hêro
Classification
- Family
- Malvaceae
Growth
- Height
- 150–200 cm
- Season
- Spring
Habitat
The Zagros mountain range; now also widespread around the world.