I always try to keep an eye on what’s blooming here on our “Green Island,” even during the windy and cloudy winter months. There is so much life hidden in the mist! On a recent bike ride, I was delighted to spot three different white flowers beginning their winter bloom.

1. Calla Lily (Zantedeschia aethiopica) You might recognize this as a popular gift around Easter. While native to Southern Africa, it has naturalized beautifully here in the Azores and Madeira. It is a large, architectural, and truly elegant flower.

2. White Agapanthus (Lily of the Nile) While we’ve written about the purple Agapanthus that blankets the island in spring, the white variety is a special winter treat. Like the Calla Lily, these also originate from Southern Africa and thrive in our volcanic soil.

3. Paperwhite (Narcissus papyraceus) These delicate, perennial bulbs are native to the Mediterranean. They grow from stalks that look a bit like green onions, but the clusters of tiny white stars they produce are much more fragrant!

I couldn’t resist bringing a bit of this wild beauty home. I’ve added some of these to the villa’s garden, so you can enjoy their bright blooms during your stay at the Golden Mermaid.

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Anthony “Tiger” Liu is an American expat and the operator of Golden Mermaid Villa and Longevity Habit retreat, where he shares a passion for the vibrant culture and nourishing lifestyle of São Miguel.