Springing out of the Maltese earth, native and exclusively found in Malta, these endemic plants are as Maltese as can be. See if you can spot them whilst out walking to enjoy the fresh and flowering Maltese countryside this spring.

1. Maltese Cliff-Orache (Atriplex Lanfrancoi)

You'll find the Maltese Cliff-Orache, presumably, growing on coastal cliffs. You'll recognise this endemic shrub by the 5-9 mm orbicular, rounded fruits at the apex of erect branches.

2. Maltese Everlasting (Helichrysum Melitense)

Known in Maltese as Sempreviva t'Għawdex, the Maltese Everlasting is threatened and therefore protected by law. It grows most abundantly in the area of Dwejra in Gozo, in the area known as fuq il-Qawra.

3. Maltese Ferule (Ferula Melitensis)

Only as recently as December 2018 has the Ferula Melitensis been distinguished as morphologically and genetically distinct from the European and African ferule species. This plant is widespread in the Maltese countryside.

4. Gozo Hyoseris (Hyoseris frutescens)

This plant was first found in Gozo, where it is widespread and grows abundantly, and later in Malta, where it is more scarce. It tends to grow in shaded areas on cliffs, coastal garigue, rubble walls and boulder screes.

5. Maltese Sea-Chamomile (Anthemis Urvilleana)

Coming from the daisy or sunflower family, this endemic Maltese plant is locally referred to as bebuna tal-baħar. Like many other endemic species, this too is considered to be threatened. Remember to never pick wild flowers, whether you know they are protected or otherwise.

6. Maltese Stocks (Matthiola Incana SSP. Melitensis)

Giżi ta' Malta in Maltese, this endemic plant is also threatened and protected by law. It is from the Mustard or Cress Family and bears pretty violet flowers from March to May.

7. Maltese Rock-Centaury (Cheirolophus Crassifolius)

Meet Malta's national plant, the Maltese Rock-Centaury. Although protected, it does not risk extinction as it is cultivated for reintroduction in case it disappears from its natural habitat: the western cliffs of Malta, Wied Babu and Fungus Rock.

8. Zerafa's Sea-Lavender (Limonium Zeraphae)

Zerafa's Sea-Lavendar grows specifically on Coralline or Globigerina Limestone and in areas close to the sea. There are actually three identified species: Limonium Melitense, Limonium Virgatum and Limonium Zeraphae which are not very distinct from each other.