Maltese centaury

An endemic found only on Maltese cliffs – this rock-dwelling relative of the cornflower is Malta’s official national plant.

A small, branched shrub with thick, fleshy, spoon-shaped leaves gathered in rosettes at the tips of the shoots. It bears purple or pinkish-purple flower heads resembling those of the cornflower. It grows in crevices of sheer limestone sea cliffs, where it endures salty spray, wind and summer drought. It is a relic of an ancient Mediterranean flora, and its closest relatives grow in the Canary Islands and Madeira.

Significance in the country

The species occurs only in Malta and is legally protected; it has been declared the national plant and is increasingly planted in gardens and green spaces as a showcase of the native flora.

Where it grows

On the cliffs of south-western Malta (around Dingli, Siġġiewi, Qrendi and Żurrieq) and on the cliffs of Gozo, including at Dwejra and Ta’ Ċenċ.

More: Wikipedia (en)