Ballota acetabulosa: The traditional plant used for oil lamps in Tinos and Syros

The native shrub Ballota acetabulosa serves as a traditional natural material for lighting oil lamps in households and churches across Tinos and Syros. In Tinos, the plant is locally known as 'foufoulia', while in Syros it is referred to as 'farfalia'.

The collection of dried calyxes takes place at the end of summer, typically in August, after the plant has dried on rocky slopes. Before placing them in oil, the seed inside each calyx is removed to prevent popping during burning, providing a steady flame without producing smoke.