Malta has a new endemic species! The Environment & Resources Authority (ERA) has named the Maltese Ferule, il-ferla in Maltese, the latest endemic species in Maltese flora. The Maltese Ferule has been around for five to six million years, and was previously thought to be the Common Ferule, which is actually absent from our islands. The species sprouts and thrives in various habitats such as fallow or abandoned fields, countryside roads and grasslands.

But what is the Maltese Ferule?

1. It’s unique to the Maltese Islands, and quite a common species around here

2. In the past, it was used for treatment of skin infections. Its dried stalks were sometimes used to sharpen razor blades and to burn tinder slowly.

3. Interestingly, it is a compound of the leading drug ferulenol, which is used in certain cancer-treating drugs.

4. This cute bud confirms the North African affinity of some of the Maltese flora.