Spring incoming! Almond trees blossoming across Malta provide previews of the season ahead
Signs of spring have arrived early in Malta, with the island's almond trees bursting into bloom, signalling the start of a new season. The sight of delicate white and pink almond blossoms filling the countryside is a sure sign that warmer days are on their way - although it seems that won't be the case this weekend!
Introduced from their native Middle Eastern region, almond trees have been a significant part of Malta’s landscape for centuries, thriving in the island’s dry, rocky soil. Known for their delicate white and pink blossoms, these trees bloom in late winter to early spring.
The Malta almond (scientific name: Prunus amygdalus), often seen in rural fields and countryside areas, produces both bitter and sweet almonds, which are widely used in Maltese cuisine, especially in traditional sweets like the Lenten biscuit called the 'Kwareżimal', and almond-based cakes - yet another reason to celebrate this tree.
These pretty white and pink flowers provide a reminder to any who have the winter blues that spring is well on its way - a season that's perfect for outdoor time and, who knows, maybe even a first swim of the year!
Have you seen any almond trees yet?