Malta Fungus
Cynomorium coccineum
Family Cynomoriaceae
Maltese name Gherq Sinjur
Habitat Rupestral
Stocky;very deep red, unbranched, with reduced leaves. Tiny flowers open in spring and cover the upper part. Parasitic on a number of succulent shrubs which grow near the sea. Long thought to be a fungus because of its strange shape. Known mostly from Fungus Rock, and also from Dingli Cliffs.
Formerly only known from Fungus Rock, its rarity and appearance caused much interest and attention. Was believed to have medicinal and magic powers, and the Knights of St John enjoyed a monopoly on its harvesting and distribution; those caught gathering the plant unlawfully were sent to the galleys. In time it was found growing in other parts of the Mediterranean, especially on small islands. Very rare.
