S. carica was first described by Baumann and Kunkele in 1989 from the Caria district of Anatolia, the species name being derived from its association with that ancient region.
Its range is entirely eastern Mediterranean and largely the Aegean islands of Rhodes, Samos and Lesbos together with the adjacent Anatolian coast and hinterland. Its complete distribution is however poorly known due to confusion with the closely related and commonly occurring S. orientalis. Some authorities believe that S. carica replaces S. orientalis in the most easterly parts of its range but in the west, the two species clearly overlap. Others maintain that in any event, they are synonymous but this is also incorrect and they can definitely be separated.
The inflorescence of S. carica is elongated and held more horizontally than S. orientalis with flowers that are invariably deep red/purple and are seldom if ever recorded as anthocyanin deficient as is common in S. orientalis. The epichile is noticeably wider and more hirsute with bracts that rarely exceed the length of the hood. Habitat requirements are undemanding and it will thrive in dry or damp conditions in full sun or part shade, predominantly on alkaline soils. Its flowering period coincides with that of S. orientalis, from mid March to late April.
S. carica is a sturdy species up to 40cms high with flowers that lack the delicacy of its esthetically more pleasing cousin. The pictures come from Lesbos, Samos and Rhodes, dating from the middle of April by which time they were in full flower.
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