Key to the species of Limonium genus occurring in Malta

1. Stem prostrate to ascending with branches markedly arcuate to reflexed, forming branching angles 90–160°, spikes with 2–3 spikelets per cm, calyx lobes 1–1.2 mm long.................................................................................................................... L. zeraphae

- Stem usually erect with branches slightly arcuate, forming branching angles 15–45°, spikes with 3–6 spikelets per cm, calyx lobes 0.6–0.9 mm long................................................................................................................................................................................ 2

2. Stem up to 12 cm long, spikelet 5–6 mm long, outer bract 1–1.4 mm long with apiculum 0.5–0.6 mm long, inner bract 3.8–4.3 mm long, calyx 4.5–5 mm long with lobes triangular-ovate.................................................................................................. L. lanfrancoi

- Stem up to 45 cm long, spikelet 6–8 mm long, outer bract 1.5–2.5 mm long with apiculum 0.6–0.9 mm long, inner bract 4.8–5.5 mm long, calyx 5–6 mm long with lobes semi elliptical....................................................................................................................3

3. Leaves withered at anthesis, spikelet straight, 7–8 mm long, 3–4 per cm, calyx 2.5–3 mm exserted from inner bract, with tube 1.5–1.8 mm long............................................................................................................................................................... L. melitense

- Leaves green at anthesis, spikelet more or less curved, 6–7 mm long, 4–6 per cm, calyx 1.8–2,2 mm exserted from inner bract, with tube 2.5–3 mm long........................................................................................................................................................... L. virgatum