Thyme - Monaco

Thymus vulgaris - Thyme grows as an evergreen shrub and is native to Southern Europe. It has been cultivated since ancient times primarily for culinary purposes. The Egyptians used thyme in their embalming process and the Greeks burned it as an incense. The essential oils are used for adding scent to perfumes and soaps or for adding flavor to toothpastes and mouthwashes. The leaves can be used in flavoring cooked dishes, added as a garnish or brewed as a beverage.

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Monaco was purchased from Aragon by the Grimaldi family in 1419; the Grimaldi family was of Genovesi origin. Being unable to protect itself, Monaco sought the assistance of France and became a self-ruling French protectorate. France took full control during the French Revolution. Monaco regained independence with the conclusion of the Napoleonic Wars and turned to the Kingdom of Sardinia for protection. In 1860, Monaco realigned itself with France after Sardinia fell into decline.

Coastal Premna - British Indian Ocean Territory

The Chagos Archipelago had been part of the British colony of Mauritius, but was detached in 1965 to create the British Indian Ocean Territory; Mauritius became independent in 1968. Diego Garcia, at less than 30 square kilometers, is the largest atoll of the Chargos chain and serves as a United States military base. 

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Premna serratifolia - Coastal premnas are part of the lavender family. It is a common plant distributed from Eastern Africa, across the Indian Ocean, into Southeastern Asia, along Northern Australia, and to the islands of the Pacific. It is a small shrub growing to heights ranging from 2 to 6 meters. Moist forest settings and low altitude areas with seasonal rain or standing water serve as ideal habitats. The flowers have a light creamish-green color and produce an unpleasant aroma, but the leaves, shoots, and seeds are edible.