Nergiz, symbol of Kurdish Newroz, at risk of disappearing

The nergiz, a daffodil, is a sign of spring and the important Kurdish holiday of Newroz, the new year. The appearance of nergiz on the mountains means Newroz is around the corner. 

Every year, bunches of the flower are sold on the streets and given as gifts among friends for the new year. 

The popular flowers, however, are at risk of disappearing completely, being over-picked. 

“If they continue to treat such flowers in this way, it will perish. Maybe one day our future generations will wonder about a flower in Kurdistan named nergiz,” said Ararat Zardeshti of the Green Kurdistan Organization.