This species is endemic to the Maltese islands,[2] where it is frequent and widespread in Gozo but rare in Malta.

It was first discovered on Gozo, hence its second English name, then later found on the larger island Malta, in three separate localities.

It occurs in habitats such as cliffs, coastal garigue, rubble walls and boulder screes, and mainly in shady areas.

It is easy to cultivate by seed and it flowers all year round, but mostly in Spring and early Summer.

& SCIBERRAS, A (2009) Notes on the distribution of Helichrysum melitense, Hyoseris frutescens and Matthiola incana melitensis in the Maltese islands.