In the Maltese Islands, our gardens are more than just a hobby—they are vital pockets of biodiversity. Choosing the right plants isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about choosing species that thrive in our unique Mediterranean climate while protecting our local environment. To help you make the best choices, we’ve broken down the official ERA Guidelines for Landscaping into a simple, practical guide for your home garden.

1. The Golden Rule: Native is Better

The ERA emphasizes the importance of Native and Archaeophytic (historically introduced) species.

Why? These plants have adapted over millennia to our hot, dry summers and salty winds. They require significantly less water and provide the best food and shelter for local bees, butterflies, and birds.

The Benefit: A lower water bill and a garden that stays green even in the height of August!

2. Top Picks: ERA-Recommended Plants for Your Garden

Based on the official lists, here are some of the best performers for local gardens, categorized by size:

For Shade & Structure (Large Trees)

Holm Oak (Quercus ilex / Ballut): An evergreen classic that provides deep shade.

Olea Europaea (Olive Tree / Żebbuġ): A hardy choice with a bonus fruit production.

Aleppo Pine (Pinus halepensis / Żnuber): Perfect for larger gardens; it offers that iconic Mediterranean scent and silhouette.

Sandarac Gum Tree (Tetraclinis articulata / Għargħar): Known locally as Għargħar, this is Malta’s national tree. It’s hardy, drought-tolerant, and historically significant.

For Color & Privacy (Small Trees & Large Shrubs)

Judas Tree (Cercis siliquastrum / Siġra ta’ Ġuda): Famous for its stunning burst of pink flowers in early spring.

Bay Laurel (Laurus nobilis / Rand): Great for hedging and, of course, a staple for your kitchen!

Chaste Tree (Vitex agnus-castus / Għadiba): Beautiful lilac flower spikes that attract pollinators.

Chamaerops Humilis (European Fan Palm / Ġummar): Its natural habitat is scrub and high garigue close to the coast, but it is also found cultivated in parks, public gardens.

For Borders & Texture (Small Shrubs & Herbs)

Mediterranean Thyme (Thymus Capitatus / Sagħtar): Smells divine and loves the sun.

Myrtle (Myrtus communis / Riħan): A versatile shrub with delicate white flowers.

Pistacia lentiscus (Mastic Tree / Deru): A low-maintenance, drought-tolerant evergreen shrub thriving in full sun and well-draining, rocky soil.

3. Location Matters: Right Plant, Right Place

The ERA highlights that a plant’s success depends on its environment:

Coastal Gardens: Stick to salt-tolerant species like the African Tamarisk or Sea Fennel.

Urban/Small Spaces: Use tiered planting. Combine a small tree (like an Olive tree) with undergrowth shrubs to maximize your “green footprint” in a small area.

Rural/Farmhouse Gardens: If your garden borders the open countryside, the ERA insists on only native species to prevent non-native plants from “escaping” into the wild.

4. ERA’s Best Practices for a Sustainable Garden

Smart Watering: Use “smart” irrigation or harvested rainwater. Most native plants only need help during their first two years; once established, they are remarkably drought-resistant.

Mulching: Keep the soil covered with leaf litter or organic mulch to retain moisture.

Pollinator Friendly: Choose a variety of flowering plants to ensure there is nectar available for bees throughout the year.

5. Check in at Your Favorite Garden Center

At Sherries Estates, we believe in gardening in harmony with nature. By choosing ERA-recommended species, you aren’t just building a beautiful garden, you’re helping preserve the natural heritage of the Maltese Islands.

Ready to start your green project? Visit us in Burmarrad to explore our selection of native trees and shrubs today!