A preliminary survey and taxonomy of wild roses (Rosa Spp.) occurring on the Maltese Islands

Abstract

Rosa spp. are neglected and understudied for the Maltese flora, where only three species have been reported. R. sempervirens L. is the only native rose established in at least 12 locations in Malta. R. gallica L. s. l. (including hybrids) and R. canina L. s. l. are only mentioned in historical literature with doubtful occurrences. However, there are several other roses occurring naturally in Malta, which are probably not studied due to the difficulties in identification. A study carried out between May and July 2016 has resulted in the examination of 27 populations of wild or naturally occurring roses, of which twelve species, hybrids or cultivars have been recorded, eight of which are new for the Maltese flora. In addition, new locations or rediscoveries of R. canina and R. gallica s. l. have been found and, hence, are still extant in the Maltese Islands.