Very true - I also noticed that it's not even necessary to rub the plant - it's so intensely aromatic. Like I said, for me it is a new and fascinating field. Fascinating to learn, for example, that the smell of many aromatic plants of the garrigue is just part and consequence of a protection system (against grazing, sun etc.). It's eye-opening.
Regarding the ignorance of most people ... I also find it remarkable, but I am afraid that this is true for all societies, not only the Maltese.
I am afraid Dittrichia viscosa would not survive an Austrian winter (winters got warmer recently, but still ...). So, for me having a plant on my balcony is not an option. But that's OK, I guess every plant has its "home", too. On the other hand - quite to my surprise - I came accross references on the internet that it does actually grow as a neophyt in very few regions of Germany (
http://www.blumeninschwaben.de/Zweikeim ... richia.htm, they say it grows in the area of Ludwigshafen am Rhein) ... so maybe the microclimate here at my place, between the vineyards and the river Danube in Vienna, theoretically, might not even be too dissimilar ... (Dittrichia graveolens can be found in Austria)
