Walking the Maltese countryside from mid-winter to summer, you will see fields carpeted with lellux, wild yellow flowers which are just like a mini sun. These are Maltese Lellux or Crown Daisies, a wildflower that blooms from February to May. It is very common in the Maltese region and grows on fallow ground near seashores and garigue areas. Lellux is slightly hairier and has dark green leaves. Its flowers are pale yellow, sometimes orange. Maltese also called them Zofran. Their flowers are 1–2 in (30–60 mm). The plant is not high, its stems can only reach a height of around 2 ft (60 cm).
Crown daisies grow in various areas across Malta. A popular scenic spot is around the Citadel of Victoria on Gozo Island.
Practical info
When is it ideal to visit Malta if one wants to witness the bloom of Crown Daisy or Lellux?
The best months to visit Malta if you want to witness the bloom of Crown Daisy or Lellux are from February to May. During this period, the Maltese countryside is sprinkled with yellow flowers, making it an excellent sight for tourists. The plant is found in several areas across Malta, including fallow ground by the coast and garigue areas. Show more
Are there any areas other than Victoria's Citadel where one can witness the bloom of Crown Daisy in Malta?
In Malta, you can see the Crown Daisy blooming in several different locations, not just Victoria's Citadel. Tourists can enjoy the bloom of this beautiful yellow wildflower at popular scenic spots including the Simar Valley Nature Reserve, Buskett Gardens, and Dingli Cliffs. You can also experience the stunning display of different species of wildflowers along the hiking trails and coastal paths in the Maltese countryside during the spring season. Show more
What is the importance of Crown Daisy in Maltese culture?
Crown Daisy or Lellux is a culturally significant wildflower in Malta. It is widely used in traditional Maltese literature, songs, and folklore to depict unrequited love or the notion of 'love me, love me not.' The flower is also a symbol of the spring season, hope, and sunshine. Moreover, it has been used in traditional Maltese cuisine as an ingredient in dishes like 'Ross il-Forn,' which is a baked rice dish with chicken and vegetables. Show more
When did Crown Daisy gain popularity and become a frequently found plant in Malta?
Although the history of Crown Daisy or Lellux in Malta is unclear, it seems that the plant started appearing commonly in the 1960s and 1970s when fallow fields became more prevalent in the Maltese countryside due to the advancement of farming techniques. Since then, the flower has become a quintessential part of the Maltese landscape during the spring months. Show more
Can one find other types of wildflowers in Malta during the spring season?
Apart from Crown Daisy or Lellux, the Maltese countryside blooms with several types of wildflowers during spring. Maltese Rock Centaury, Yellow Horned Poppy, Maltese Sea Lavender, and Maltese Pyramidal Orchid are some of the other wildflowers that you can find. These flowers are often found in rocky and coastal areas and serve as excellent natural sights for tourists exploring the Maltese outdoors. Show more
