A deciduous shrub or small tree, 1-6 metres tall native to the Mediterranean region. It is an indigenous species for the Maltese Islands and found growing along valleys and wetland habitats. In the past it was used in basketry by our forefathers. As an ornamental plant it can be used for its interesting foliage and late summer flowers which attract butterflies and many other pollinating insects.
Leaves are aromatic and textured at the border, compound consisting of 5-7 finger-shaped leaflets, 2 – 10 cm long, dark green above and covered with white silky hair below.
Flowers are abundant, borne in summer between June and September and blueish-violet in colour (rarely pink or white).
