Istra Nova

Flora

Istria boasts a combination of typical Mediterranean vegetation and local peculiarities, which we can admire or also enjoy soaked in spirits.

The Downy Oak or Pubescent Oak is typical for the thermophilic forests of this region. Olive trees are the pride of the Slovenian Istria. Other vegetation, thriving in the Mediterranean climate, also includes citruses as well as fig trees, aromatic plants and Mediterranean shrubland (maquis). Service tree (Sorbus domestica L.), a deciduous tree which can grow up to 20 metres, is an Istrian peculiarity. It is a tree with strong roots, rough and ridged reddish brown bark and a voluminous crown. Since it requires much sunlight it is more common at the edges of forests than in the interior. It needs airy and rich soil. It is resistant to drought, but sensitive to early cold, for it starts growing quickly. Two service trees more than 20 metres high can be seen in Kobilje and Dolenci. This tree can be up to 300 years old.

Service trees bloom in May and June. The fruit developed from pollinated flowers is fleshy and round, somewhat resembling pears. At first it is greenish, then brownish or reddish. Service tree fruit ripens in September or October. Despite high sugar content it is sour and bitter.

Service trees are very useful, known among the people especially due to their fruit. The fruit was once used for the production of wine with a typical vanilla tinge. It was also used in the production of fruit cider (together with apples and pears). Cider with service tree fruit was less perishable. Very good spirits were also produced from service tree fruit, and it was also appreciated in the making of jams or compotes. Sometimes it was also dried and used for animal as well as human consumption.