Cortaderia selloana, Poaceae

Pampas Grass

GENERAL
Pampas Grass is the distinctive plant of Argentina’s grasslands; in Arriyadh, it withstands hot,
Origin : temperate,
dry winds and is frost-tolerant. There is potential to use this plant more, but it demands space.
sub-Mediterranean It grows to a massive clump of 2 up to a maximum of 5 metres high, and about the same width.
Vigour : normal growth
rate Leaves are pale-green and may reach 2 metres in length and are 1 cm wide. They are bent down,
Humidity : semi-arid, semi-
humid
giving the plant a fountain-like appearance. Male and female panicles grow on different plants
Propagation : sowing and
and the females are the more attractive ones. In late summer and autumn, silky plumes appear.
pricking out,
division
When dried, they make long-lasting, ornamental elements in arrangements. In mild climates, it
Maintenance : moderate is evergreen, but frost may force it to become dormant. Damaged plants generally recover when
cut back to the ground, but are weakened if this is practised annually. Pampas Grass tolerates full
CONDITIONS
Urban climate : resistant
to partial sun and tolerates drought and high salinity, but requires good drainage. Any handling
Dessication : resistant
must be done very carefully because the serrated edges can lead to painful cuts to the skin. To
Stagnant water : vulnerable keep it from injuring pedestrians, it should not be located close to pathways or seating areas.
Irrigation : low
Pampas Grass makes an impressive solitary plant or may be planted in groups for screening. It
Salinity/ppm : very high (8000
ppm) readily multiplies by dividing, and propagation by sowing is also common. Cultivars have to be
Hardiness : -21°C reproduced vegetatively. Varieties show different sizes, such as the dwarf ‘Pumila’, growing to
SHAPE
about 1.5 metres, or another flower colour such as ‘Rosea’, with light-pink plumes.
Type : grasses
Height : 1 m-5 m
Spread : 1 m-5 m
Foliage : semi-evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : white, secondary:
silver
Size : 50 cm
Period : August - October

FRUIT
Type of fruit : caryopsis
Fruit size : 0.2 cm

119
 Crinum asiaticum, Amaryllidaceae

Poison Bulb, St. John Lily

St. John Lily or Poison Bulb is an evergreen perennial from Southeast Asia. In Arriyadh, it is best GENERAL
in partial shade and a humid environment. Broad, dark-green foliage emerges from an enormous Origin : sub-tropical,
bulb more than 25 cm across. It should be buried half in fertile soil that is rich in humus. Nu- tropical
Vigour : normal growth
merous arching leaves reach between 1 and 1.5 metres long and some 12 cm wide, and gradually rate
taper to the apex. If damaged by frost, they are soon replaced by new growth. Fleshy roots are Humidity : very humid,
extremely humid
easily damaged during transplanting. From spring until autumn, thick pedicels bear umbels of Propagation : sowing and
up to 100 large, fragrant flowers with linear white petals that made imaginative people call it pricking out,
division
Spider Lily. The tubes measure some 7 cm in diameter. Inflorescences appear several times per Maintenance : moderate
season and may develop capsules of 5 cm across with globose seeds. All parts are toxic if ingested.
If daughter bulbs are not detached, they eventually create an imposing bunch. C. asiaticum tole- CONDITIONS
Urban climate : vulnerable
rates full sun when grown in well-drained, moist soil. Some drought is tolerated by established Dessication : vulnerable
plants on open ground. In containers, regular irrigation is essential. Potting soil should retain Stagnant water : vulnerable

water without getting logged. Watering may be reduced in winter when the plant goes dormant, Irrigation : high
Salinity/ppm : moderate (1200
usually without losing its leaves. Irrigation should be resumed in early spring. Slow-releasing ppm)
fertiliser should be applied at this time, while potted plants do best with water soluble nutrients Hardiness : 0°C

every fortnight. In winter, plants may be divided, and new plants may also be achieved by sowing. SHAPE
Type : perennial
Height : 1 m-1.3 m
Spread : 1.5 m-2 m
Foliage : evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : white, lilac
Size : 7 cm - 12 cm
Period : March - October
Smell : scented, strong,
flower

FRUIT
Type of fruit : capsule
Fruit size : 5 cm
Toxicity : poisonous

120
 Cupressus arizonica, Cupressaceae

Arizona Cypress

GENERAL
This evergreen conifer, the form of which varies from pyramidal to sometimes rounded, reaches
Origin : Mediterranean, a height of 10 to 20 m. It is indigenous to the southwest of the USA, principally Arizona, and
sub-Mediterranean,
sub-tropical
Central America. It is found naturally on dry, sterile, rocky mountain slopes with poor soils and
Humidity : very arid, semi- on valley sides. The colour of the scale-like foliage ranges from light green to silvery blue. The
Propagation :
arid
sowing and
branches are dense and horizontal to the stem. Young branches have a cherry-red bark; the older
pricking out, bark is deeply furrowed and dark brown. Tolerant of full sun, heat and wind, with a moderate
cuttings
Maintenance : low
growth rate, this tree is drought-resistant when established, but thrives with a thorough soaking
every month or so. It is not recommended for soils with a high water table. Sometimes planted as
CONDITIONS a windbreak, C. arizonica becomes open and unkempt as it matures, and is thus less effective as
Urban climate :
Dessication :
vulnerable
resistant
a barrier. It is also susceptible to insect attack, such as cypress bark beetle, when older or under
Stagnant water : vulnerable stress. Subject to leaf scorch when grown as an ornamental in an exposed location. Often planted
Irrigation : medium for a woodland or forest effect in parks, it is also useful as a space definer. Not often seen in Ar-
Salinity/ppm : moderate (2000
ppm)
riyadh, the Arizona Cypress generally requires little maintenance.
Hardiness : -25°C

SHAPE
Type : tree
Height : 10 m-20 m
Foliage : evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : pale yellow
Size : 0.2 cm
Period : March - May

FRUIT
Type of fruit : cones
Fruit size : 3 cm

121
 Cupressus sempervirens, Cupressaceae

Italian Cypress, Cemetery Cypress

This well-known columnar Italian Cypress can be found throughout the Mediterranean and parts GENERAL
of the Middle East. It is an evergreen conifer that reaches a height of 20 to 30 metres. The Italian Origin : Mediterranean
Cypress grows in limy, clayey soils that can be dry and poor, but must be well drained. This tree Vigour : fairly fast
growing
is very erect and has a narrow, tapering column form. The tiny, dark, grey-green leaves are dense Humidity : very arid, semi-
and fine-textured. The stem is densely branched with erect branches. The bark is fibrous, thin arid

and grey when mature. The flowers and fruits or small cones are inconspicuous. Propagation is by Propagation : sowing and
pricking out,
seed and cuttings. It withstands intense heat and aridity, responding well to deep watering every cuttings
Maintenance : low
month or two. In the ancient world, the cypress wood was treasured because of its durability.
With its elegant and unique vertical accent, it makes a very impressive specimen tree, especially CONDITIONS
in formal gardens. It is also valuable as a tall screen, for high hedges, as a wind shelter and in Urban climate : resistant
Dessication : vulnerable
rows along roads or formal driveways. Too much fertiliser or even water will make the tree leggy Stagnant water : vulnerable
and floppy, spoiling the columnar habit. Some branches may require tying in. Care should be Irrigation : medium
taken in choosing the location where this tree is to grow, owing to its ultimate size. Attempts have Salinity/ppm : moderate (2000
ppm)
been made to grow C. sempervirens in Arriyadh, but they have not always been successful: it is Hardiness : -15°C
probably best in a wadi, park-like garden sheltered by other trees.
SHAPE
Type : tree
Height : 20 m-30 m
Spread : 3 m-5 m
Foliage : evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : pale yellow
Period : March - May
Smell : scented,
pleasantly
scented, leaf,
spicy

FRUIT
Type of fruit : cones
Fruit size : 2.5 cm - 4 cm

122
 Cycas revoluta, Cycadaceae

Cycad, Fern Palm, Sago Palm

GENERAL
Fern or Sago Palm is the common name for this plant, which many believe to be a palm tree,
Origin : Mediterranean,
because of its fronds. C. revoluta belongs to a special plant family called cycads, which produce
sub-tropical,
tropical
cones instead of flowers. It is native to southern Japan. There are some excellent specimens at Kasr
Vigour : very slow- Tuwaiq in the Diplomatic Quarter. It eventually grows to the proportions of a small tree, reaching
Humidity :
growing
semi-humid, very
a height of 2 to 3 metres. The Cycas reaches maturity at the age of 100, but it is very slow-growing
humid, extremely and a specimen at this age will have a trunk of 7 metres. The evergreen, leathery, long leaves are
humid
Propagation : sowing and
in a very symmetrical order at top of the stem. The plant is dioecious: the male plant develops an
pricking out impressive cone for pollen production, and the female plants bear groups of nut-like seeds that
Maintenance : low
can be used for propagation, which can also be carried out by removing the basal offsets. Cycas
CONDITIONS
prefers sandy to clayey soil with some humus content. It does not like salinity and requires ade-
Urban climate : resistant quate irrigation and a minimum of air humidity. The Sago will grow well in the shade of trees
Dessication : vulnerable and is best planted to receive morning sun. Pruning is not required. C. revoluta is a very attrac-
Stagnant water : vulnerable
Irrigation : medium
tive plant, because of its dark-green leaves and regular and symmetrical growth. It survives the
Salinity/ppm : moderate (1200 intense, dry heat of Arriyadh, and sometimes direct sun, remarkably well, giving a lush, tropical
Hardiness :
ppm)
-9°C
impression. Attractive planting schemes can be created with Cycas as accent or specimen plants
or in groups in parks, gardens or pedestrian precincts.
SHAPE
Type : shrub, tree
Height : 2 m-3 m
Spread : 1.5 m-3.5 m
Foliage : evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : deep yellow
Size : 30 cm
Period : June - August

FRUIT
Type of fruit : drupe (leathery/
fibrous)
Fruit size : 4 cm
Toxicity : edible when
processed,
poisonous, fruit,
shoot

123
 Cymbopogon citratus, Poaceae

Lemon Grass

Lemon grass is a perennial, native to India, which has become very popular as an aromatic herb GENERAL
in cooking, and in the production of perfume. This lemon-scented grass is also versatile in the Origin : sub-tropical,
garden and is now seen often in Arriyadh, where it has been planted as an ornamental. It grows Humidity :
tropical
semi-arid, semi-
in dense clumps up to 1.8 metres in height and about 1 metre in width. The strap-like leaves are humid, very
humid
bright bluish-green, and release a citrus aroma when crushed; they have gracefully drooping Propagation : division, sowing
tips, making them interesting in garden borders. Typically without flowers, flowering produces and pricking out

inflorescences that have a nodding appearance in the wind. An attractive groundcover when Maintenance : moderate

planted in gravel mulch or next to a pathway, plants release their fragrance when brushed against CONDITIONS
by passers-by; they also grow well in containers. Lemon grass is not frost-tolerant, but will come Dessication : vulnerable

back when cut to the ground. It is said to keep away mosquitoes. C. citratus needs full sun to light Stagnant water : vulnerable
Irrigation : medium
shade with a moist, well-drained soil. Plants are drought-tolerant, but suffer without watering. As Salinity/ppm : low (1000 ppm)
fairly aggressive growers, they need to be divided, which is the usual method of propagation in Hardiness : 0°C

spring; alternatively, they can be seeded. The roots are deep and strong, making plants suitable
SHAPE
for erosion control and slope stabilisation. Cymbopogon schoenanthus, or Incense Grass, is a Type : grasses
native Najd desert species, which also contains aromatic oil. Growing in dry, stony places, it can Height : 0.6 m-1.8 m
appear dead during the summer; after winter rain, it comes back to life and waves its flowers in Spread : 0.8 m-1.3 m

the breeze. Foliage : evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : light brown
Size : 15 cm
Period : July - August
Smell : scented, aroma,
strong, leaf,
fruity, sharp

FRUIT
Type of fruit : caryopsis

124
 Cynodon dactylon, Poaceae

Bermuda Grass, Bahama Grass, najim, najeel

GENERAL
Bermuda Grass, sometimes called Bahama Grass (najeel in Arabic), is by far the most common
Origin : temperate, lawn grass used in Arriyadh and Saudi Arabia. It is very tolerant of heat, sun, saline water and
sub-Mediterranean,
Mediterranean
poorly draining soils and is also relatively free of pests and diseases, enabling it to survive where
Vigour : normal growth few other grasses do. The grass blades are a grey-green colour and usually 2 to 15 cm long. The
rate
Humidity : semi-arid, semi-
erect flower stems grow to 30 cm tall; the seed heads are produced in a cluster of spikes. C. dacty-
humid, very lon has a deep root system: it creeps along the ground and roots wherever a node touches the soil,
humid
Propagation : direct sowing,
thus forming a dense mat. It reproduces through seeds and runners. Optimum growth occurs
division from 25 to 35°C. It will not tolerate full shade, e.g. under trees. Excellent turf can be achieved if
Maintenance : high
the grass is regularly irrigated, fertilised and mown. There are many fine-textured hybrid Ber-
CONDITIONS mudas, the best known being the ‘Tif’ series. Stolonising is the fastest way of establishing a turf.
Urban climate : resistant Sodding is very common with many turf farms in Arriyadh. Rolls of mature turf are laid down;
Dessication
Stagnant water :
: vulnerable
resistant
it is more expensive, but the effect is immediate. Bermuda Grass, when brown and dormant in
Irrigation : medium
Arriyadh in winter, can be overseeded in autumn with a quick-growing winter grass, which dies
Salinity/ppm : very high (11000 back as the heat builds up, keeping the turf green. This is a relatively intensive treatment, not
ppm)
Hardiness : -18°C
often carried out. With the habit of spreading into other areas of groundcover and gravel, its
weedy nature makes it very maintenance-intensive. It is fast growing and tough, making it useful
SHAPE for sports fields.
Type : grasses
Height : 0.03 m-0.3 m
Spread : 0.2 m-0.8 m
Foliage : semi-evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : green, light
brown
Size : 7 cm
Period : March -
December

FRUIT
Type of fruit : caryopsis

125
 Cyperus involucratus, Cyperaceae

Umbrella Plant

The Umbrella Plant is a grass-like, subtropical perennial native to southern Africa and Madagas- GENERAL
car. Now regularly seen in Arriyadh, it was previously observed or was planted close to water, Origin : Mediterranean,
but now seems to have ‘escaped’ and has seeded itself successfully in drier soils. It grows upright sub-tropical,
tropical
culms with flat, linear leaves radiated on top. The plants are evergreen and grow to 1 metre in Vigour : fairly fast
height. Ideal habitats are moist with a high nutrient content. Spreading rhizomes form huge Humidity :
growing
semi-arid, semi-
clumps that may capture riverbanks and pond-sides. In summer, plain, brown flowers occur humid, very
humid
on top of the whorls. Umbrella Plants are grown for their picturesque appearance. They give a Propagation : cuttings, division
lush, exotic impact next to any kind of water feature. They are one of the few plants adapted to Maintenance : moderate
waterlogged sites, but also tolerate locations with average moisture, where they are less invasive.
CONDITIONS
Partial sun suits them best. Frost kills the plant’s foliage but it revives as soon as temperatures Urban climate : vulnerable
rise again in spring. They are readily propagated by seeds or may be divided at any time of the Dessication : vulnerable
year. Maintenance is limited to the occasional removal of dead or unsightly leaves. If neglected in Stagnant water : resistant

suitable environments, small, shallow ponds and swamps may be overgrown. Umbrella Plants are Irrigation
Salinity/ppm
:
:
high
moderate (1800
generally traded as Cyperus alternifolius or mistaken for their larger relatives, Papyrus. A dwarf ppm)

type is Cyperus involucratus f. gracilis, with a height of some 30 cm suitable for containers and Hardiness : -6°C

even pots to grow indoors. A cultivar called ‘Variegatus’ reaches about 1.2 metres and has white SHAPE
leaf margins. Type : perennial
Height : 0.4 m-1.5 m
Spread : 0.7 m-2 m
Foliage : evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : light brown
Size : 10 cm
Period : June - August

FRUIT
Type of fruit : caryopsis
Fruit size : 0.1 cm

126
 Dalbergia sissoo, Fabaceae

Sissoo Tree, Indian Rosewood, sarsoa

GENERAL
The Indian Rosewood grows to about 15 metres high, but may even reach double this size in Af-
Origin : sub-tropical,
ghanistan, Pakistan, India and Bangladesh, where it originates. A beautiful lush, green tree for an
tropical arid landscape, D. sissoo is not often seen or well known in Arriyadh. Its Arabic name is sarsoa.
Vigour : fairly fast
growing Huge specimens used to grow near the water tower in Murabba. The crown is broad but not
Humidity : very arid, semi-
arid, semi-humid,
dense. The grey bark is furrowed lengthwise. The dense roots are dominated by a long tap root.
very humid The deciduous, alternate leaves are pinnate with three or five oval leaflets. Pale yellow, sweetly
Propagation : sowing and
pricking out,
scented, small flowers grow on racemes in spring. They develop to pods. In the wild, it is found
cuttings along riverbanks, but will tolerate drier conditions with several months of drought. Nodules on
Maintenance : moderate
its wide-spreading roots fix atmospheric nitrogen and gradually improve the soil, but care should
CONDITIONS
be taken not to damage the roots, since suckers may develop. Soils may range from coarse sand to
Urban climate : vulnerable alluvium, with a moderate salinity. Indian Rosewood does not easily compete, especially in terms
Dessication : resistant of light. Before sowing, the seeds should be soaked in water. Root suckers may also serve to grow
Stagnant water : vulnerable
Irrigation : low
new plants, but cuttings require additional rooting hormones to thrive. In favourable conditions,
Salinity/ppm : moderate (2000 the tree grows fast and is rarely infected by pests. The graceful upward branches and light foliage
Hardiness :
ppm)
-3°C
make Dalbergia suitable where filtered sunlight is required, for example on lawns. It is often plan-
ted in afforestation schemes and along roads. It is a good windbreak and aids soil stabilisation.
SHAPE
Type : tree
Height : 10 m-25 m
Spread : 6 m-9 m
Foliage : semi-evergreen,
deciduous

FLOWER
Colour : pale yellow
Size : 10 cm
Period : March - April
Smell : pleasantly
scented, sweet,
flower

FRUIT
Type of fruit : pod
Fruit size : 4 cm - 8 cm
Toxicity : inedible

127
 Delonix regia, Caesalpiniaceae

Flamboyant, Royal Poinciana, Flame Tree, bonsiana

Flamboyants, or bonsiana in Arabic, are amongst the most popular ornamental trees found in GENERAL
Arriyadh, where their feathery leaves are deciduous. Endemic to Madagascar, they are now distri- Origin : sub-tropical,
buted worldwide for their colourful blossoms that make them a beautiful attraction in late spring tropical
Vigour : fairly fast
and early summer. Early plantings of the tree in Arriyadh during the early 1980s (CE) were not growing
always successful, because young trees could not withstand the exposure to hot dry winds. With Humidity : semi-arid, semi-
humid, very
the gradual improvement of the microclimate and when planted close to the shelter of other trees. humid

Spectacular, large bunches of flowers are protruded by long stamens. Bright-scarlet inflorescences Propagation : sowing and
pricking out
appear from the age of 10 years onwards. After pollination, they develop into a large, dark-brown Maintenance : moderate
seed pod. The bark is fine-textured, and light grey or beige. Susceptible to frost, the tree survives
a considerable period of drought and even tolerates some salinity, but such stress factors seem to CONDITIONS
Urban climate : resistant
decrease its life expectancy. Requires regular irrigation. During the growing season, it is essential Dessication : vulnerable
to fertilise the tree, especially in poor, alkaline soil. It does best in fertile, well-drained ground Stagnant water : vulnerable

which is not restricted by adjacent pavements, roads or buildings, since Flamboyants are surface- Irrigation : high
Salinity/ppm : moderate (1500
rooting and are liable to push up hard paving with their roots. The open, umbrella-shaped crown ppm)
is made up of brittle twigs that are susceptible to strong winds. For its extraordinary floral per- Hardiness : -3°C

formance, this tree deserves to be treated as a highlight in large gardens and parks. SHAPE
Type : tree
Height : 15 m-18 m
Spread : 8 m-15 m
Foliage : deciduous

FLOWER
Colour : red, orange
Size : 8 cm - 10 cm
Period : June - September

FRUIT
Type of fruit : pod
Fruit size : 40 cm - 60 cm
Toxicity : poisonous

128
 Dodonaea viscosa, Sapindaceae

Hop Bush, Hopwood, shath

GENERAL
This medium to tall shrub occurs with many foliage variations throughout the tropics and is also
Origin : Mediterranean, widespread in southwestern Saudi Arabia, where it is often seen on the edge of wadis as an erect
sub-tropical shrub with its bright foliage. Its Arabic name is shath. Not grazed by animals, its leaves have
Vigour : fast growing
Humidity : very arid, semi-
medicinal properties for treating rheumatism and wounds. The lush green creates an accent in
arid, semi-humid an arid landscape, as a contrast to grey-leaved plants. The bronze-purple leafed variety ‘Purpurea’
Propagation : sowing and
pricking out, from Australia is also attractive with an intense, rich colour in winter. Unfortunately, it can be
cuttings less hardy to frost in Arriyadh than the green-leafed species. The insignificant, small flowers
Maintenance : moderate
without petals are borne in racemes after spring rains, and also throughout the year. The pollen
CONDITIONS has a strong odour at a close distance. Pinkish fruits are attractive in the autumn. Dodonea is
Dessication : resistant a versatile shrub that is often irregular in shape. It can, however, be planted in formal gardens
Stagnant water : vulnerable
Irrigation : low
and clipped as a hedge or into geometrical shapes. At the same time, as a xerophyte, it is also
Salinity/ppm : very high (7000 drought-resistant and at home in a desert situation, where it evokes the atmosphere of a wadi
Hardiness :
ppm)
-9°C
bed, when planted in run-off channels. Best in full sun, it will tolerate shade, but it does have the
disadvantage that its greedy lateral and deep roots will take the water from other plants nearby.
SHAPE Overwatering should be avoided.
Type : shrub
Height : 1 m-5 m
Spread : 2 m-4 m
Foliage : evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : light green
Size : 0.3 cm
Period : May - June

FRUIT
Type of fruit : capsule
Fruit size : 2 cm

129
 Drosanthemum hispidum, Aizoaceae

Rosea Ice Plant

This mound-forming Rosea Ice Plant is native to South Africa and Namibia, which also makes a GENERAL
resilient ground cover in Arriyadh. First, it forms a ground-hugging mat some 20 cm high that Origin : Mediterranean
eventually grows a centred bump of up to 60 cm high and 1 metre across. The grey-green foliage Vigour : fast growing

and the stems feature papillae that look like dewdrops for which it was alternatively named Dew Humidity : very arid, semi-
arid, semi-humid,
Flower. Evergreen leaves are arranged oppositely and may reach 3 cm in length. Pink star-shaped very humid

flowers with a diameter of 3 cm cover this succulent perennial in spring. This Ice Plant demands Propagation
Maintenance
:
:
cuttings
low
well-drained soil, appreciates regular watering in summer and loves full sun. Light frost does
not show any damage, since this plant belongs to the hardiest genus amongst the iceplant family CONDITIONS

(Aizoaceae, previously known as Mesembryanthemaceae). More than 100 species belong to the Urban climate :
Dessication :
resistant
resistant
genus Drosanthemum, but only a few are cultivated, of which this is the favourite. Most members Stagnant water : vulnerable
of this genus and even the entire family are called Ice Plants for the glittering surface of some Irrigation : medium

species’ leaves. Soils may be low in nutrients and high in salinity, but waterlogging is not tolera- Salinity/ppm : very high (7000
ppm)
ted and will soon kill the plant. Sowing results in types that vary in flower colour ranging from Hardiness : -6°C
mauve to almost white, and this offspring may also have flowers 5 cm across. More often, Ice
SHAPE
Plants are propagated by cuttings. They look best trailing along rocky slopes and do not require Type : sub-shrub
any maintenance if their growth conditions are met. Some shade is tolerated, but may reduce the Height : 0.2 m-0.6 m
floral display. Spread : 0.5 m-1 m
Foliage : evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : pink
Size : 3 cm
Period : April - June

FRUIT
Type of fruit : capsule
Fruit size : 0.2 cm
Toxicity : inedible

130
 Duranta erecta, Verbenaceae

Pigeon Berry, Sky Flower

GENERAL
The Pigeon Berry is a popular shrub that grows vigorously some 4 metres high and almost as wide.
Origin : Mediterranean,
It originates from tropical America and northwards to the dry climates of California. Frequently
sub-tropical sold as D. repens it is particularly successful in Arriyadh, where it is usually planted to make a
Vigour : fairly fast
growing hedge. Evergreen leaves are serrated, glossy and have a lush impact with their rich-green colour.
Humidity : semi-arid, semi-
humid, very
They are arranged oppositely along slender branches that may sometimes have a few thorns. Va-
humid riegated cultivars are frequently grown and savoured for resisting sun without their white mar-
Propagation : sowing and
pricking out,
gins getting burnt. The bright yellow leaves of Duranta erecta ‘Aurea’ are highly ornamental. It is
cuttings therefore also known as Golden Dewdrop. In summer, both cultivars and the species have lilac
Maintenance : low
or lavender flowers with white edges that appear in loose, drooping clusters to attract butterflies.
CONDITIONS
They are gradually replaced by pea-sized berries that attract the eye with their bright orange
Urban climate : resistant splendour; they also emit a pleasant vanilla scent. Apart from good drainage, they do not demand
Dessication : resistant much, tolerating an average soil and both full sun and partial shade. Light frosts are tolerated
Stagnant water : vulnerable
Irrigation : medium
to about –6°C. With its weeping shape, it makes a good specimen when mature. The species is
Salinity/ppm : moderate (1500 easily multiplied by seeds, and the varieties may be propagated by cuttings. Maintenance is low,
Hardiness :
ppm)
-6°C
if a freely growing shrub is required: occasional cutting back may be required. If cut into a hedge,
care should be taken to provide a slant, so that light reaches the lower branches, keeping them
SHAPE green.
Type : shrub, tree
Height : 1.5 m-6 m
Spread : 2 m-5 m
Foliage : semi-evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : light blue, light
lilac
Size : 10 cm - 15 cm
Period : May - September

FRUIT
Type of fruit : berry
Fruit size : 1 cm - 1.2 cm

131
 Duvernoia adhatodoides, Acanthaceae

Pistol Bush

The Pistol Bush is a shrub of 3 metres in height found in the undergrowth of coastal forests in the GENERAL
Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. It provides a good background shrub in Arriyadh, preferab- Origin : Mediterranean,
ly in a sheltered environment. It grows an oval or round shape, but may be trained as a standard, sub-tropical
Vigour : fast growing
revealing a rough, dark-brown bark. Large, evergreen leaves are shiny on top and have a lush Humidity : semi-arid, semi-
impact. Flowering begins in February and may last until August. The conspicuous flowers appear humid, very
humid
on upright spikes and are white with purple lines. When pollinated by bees they develop into 3 Propagation : sowing and
× 1 cm capsules that burst open with a loud crack to release ripe seeds. This procedure made the pricking out
Maintenance : moderate
Pistol Bush earn its common name. Both the vivid growth and its prolonged flowering period
make this shrub a decorative specimen in small gardens and public parks. It may grow as a dense CONDITIONS
screen, flowering hedge or act as background planting. The large leaves do not take shearing, but Urban climate : vulnerable
Dessication : vulnerable
pruning is possible at any time of the year. Light frosts are tolerated, but plants should not be Stagnant water : vulnerable
exposed to drying winds. Owing to its forest origins, it responds to composted soil and partial Irrigation : medium
sun with healthy growth. It responds well to fertiliser and does best with frequent irrigation in Salinity/ppm : moderate (1500
ppm)
summer. Propagation is possible from both seeds and cuttings. Seedlings often appear in mulch Hardiness : -3°C
and can be potted to multiply the shrub. It does not become invasive in desert climates, and is
generally free of pests and diseases. SHAPE
Type : shrub
Height : 3m
Spread : 3m
Foliage : evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : white, pink
Size : 10 cm
Period : February - August

FRUIT
Type of fruit : capsule
Fruit size : 3 cm

132
 Echinops hussoni, Asteraceae

Globe Thistle, shidq aljamal

GENERAL
Echinops hussoni, or Globe Thistle, has a wide range of habitats. It is widespread in dry wadi beds
Origin : Mediterranean, in the Arriyadh region, whereby its original climatic zone is more Mediterranean and subtropical.
Humidity :
sub-tropical
extremely arid,
It is known in Arabic as shidq aljamal. The Globe Thistle is a prickly, perennial herb, named after
very arid, semi- its attractive, spherically shaped, pale-blue flowers. It grows to a height of 60 cm. The stems and
arid
Propagation : direct sowing,
leaves are silver grey-green, soft, but with spiny tips and woolly underneath. The plant’s leaves
sowing and form a star on the ground from which the flower stalk emerges, usually during the early summer,
pricking out
Maintenance : low
bearing a globe covered with tiny flowers between the spines. The blooms are still attractive, even
when dry after flowering. The blue globes attract many butterflies and other insects. The fleshy
CONDITIONS roots are quite deep. E. hussoni prefers poor, sandy or rocky soil that is well drained. Tolerance to
Urban climate : resistant
Dessication : resistant
salinity is low, but otherwise the plant is well adapted to harsh, desert conditions. It can be pro-
Stagnant water : vulnerable pagated by seed, and it self-seeds easily. An attractive plant for massed planting or groundcover,
Irrigation : none as well as in rock or steppe gardens, this perennial is very useful for planting in open country
Salinity/ppm
Hardiness
:
:
low (1000 ppm)
-9°C
as a coloniser, a slope stabiliser or on rocky hillsides. These thistles do not need irrigation once
established, and maintenance is also very low.
SHAPE
Type : perennial
Height : 0.4 m-0.6 m
Spread : 0.3 m-0.5 m
Foliage : deciduous

FLOWER
Colour : blue
Size : 6 cm
Period : May - June

FRUIT
Type of fruit : achene

133
 Echinops spinosissimus, Asteraceae

Globe Thistle

This species of Echinops is also known as Desert Thistle. It is to be found throughout the Medi- GENERAL
terranean, Middle East and on the Arabian peninsula, and is often seen in Arriyadh and the sur- Origin : Mediterranean
rounding region. Like E. hussoni, it is a perennial, but a higher species growing up to 90 or 100 Humidity : extremely arid,
very arid, semi-
cm. The difference also lies in the flowers. ‘Spinosissimus’ indicates the shape of the long spines arid
which protrude from the globed bloom. The spiny leaves are also much denser and pointed, in Propagation : direct sowing,
sowing and
contrast to other Globe Thistles. Propagation is by seed. A very undemanding plant, it is useful pricking out

for planting in desert conditions and extensive landscapes, where it can provide relatively dense Maintenance : low

cover on stony ground and is attractive in all seasons. CONDITIONS

Urban climate : resistant
Dessication : resistant
Stagnant water : vulnerable
Irrigation : none
Salinity/ppm : low (1000 ppm)
Hardiness : -12°C

SHAPE
Type : perennial
Height : 0.7 m-1 m
Spread : 0.4 m-0.6 m
Foliage : deciduous

FLOWER
Colour : white, pastel blue
Size : 6 cm
Period : September -
November

FRUIT
Type of fruit : achene
Fruit size : 1.2 cm

134
 Encelia farinosa, Asteraceae

Incienso, Brittlebush

GENERAL
Encelia, or Brittlebush, is a woody perennial or sub-shrub that is native to the Sonoran and
Origin : Mediterranean,
Mojave deserts of northern Mexico and the southwestern USA. Seen up until now in only a few
sub-tropical locations in Arriyadh – there is a flourishing enclave at Kasr Tuwaiq in the Diplomatic Quar-
Humidity : very arid, semi-
arid, semi-humid, ter – it has great potential for widespread use. It grows from 60 to 90 cm high, and up to 150 cm
Propagation :
very humid
sowing and
wide. The evergreen leaves are silvery light grey. The bright yellow, daisy-like flowers are 2 cm in
pricking out, diameter, on long, thin stems above the foliage, as if they were floating above the shrub, which
cuttings
Maintenance : moderate
they cover in spring. The Brittlebush is completely adapted to desert conditions. Fast growing,
especially after a wet winter, it needs nearly no irrigation once established. It will, however, die
CONDITIONS out after some years when very dry, only to make a comeback after self-seeding. It is tolerant of
Urban climate :
Dessication :
resistant
resistant
neither high salinity nor light frost, after which it will recover in spring. Encelia prefers full sun or
Stagnant water : vulnerable
partially sunny locations, and sandy or rocky soil with good drainage. Propagation can be done
Irrigation : none by seed or with cuttings. If self-seeding is not required, pruning of florescence after flowering is
Salinity/ppm : moderate (1500
ppm)
advisable, and trimming of branches in autumn will encourage dense growth. Attractive planting
Hardiness : -3°C schemes with bright spots of colour can be created with E. farinosa as a small hedge, in grouped
or massed planting in public open spaces and urban areas, as well as in park or street median
SHAPE
Type : perennial,
planting and in pedestrian precincts and containers. It is an eye-catching plant in rock gardens.
sub-shrub
Height : 0.6 m-0.9 m
Spread : 0.9 m-1.5 m
Foliage : evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : yellow
Size : 3 cm - 3.5 cm
Period : April - May

FRUIT
Type of fruit : achene
Fruit size : 0.4 cm
Toxicity : inedible

135
 Eriobotrya japonica, Rosaceae

Loquat

Eriobotrya, commonly known as Loquat, is an evergreen shrub or small tree with a compact, GENERAL
rounded structure that reaches a height of between 3 and 8 metres. It is indigenous to Central Origin : sub-Mediterranean,
China and South Japan, and seen in Arriyadh only in sheltered gardens and farms. The bark and Mediterranean,
sub-tropical
young branches are woolly and the large, deep-veined and saw-toothed leaves are glossy, dark Vigour : normal growth
green on top and rusty underneath; they are elliptically shaped and up to 30 cm long. Clusters Humidity :
rate
semi-humid, very
of small, white, rose-like flowers appear at the branch endings in panicles in autumn and winter, humid

exuding a scent of vanilla. The small, edible, round fruit is deep-yellow in colour, and sweet in Propagation : sowing and
pricking out,
flavour. The large seed can be squeezed out of the fleshy fruit. Loquat is deep rooting and likes layer, cuttings

well-drained, but moist soil, and is nevertheless quite drought-tolerant. Growth rate and salt to- Maintenance : moderate

lerance are moderate. E. japonica can be propagated by seed or cuttings. It is an appealing, small CONDITIONS
tree for a protected, private garden or patio or a large container, because of its attractive foliage, Urban climate : vulnerable

flowers and fruit. Best planted in wind-sheltered locations, Loquat will make an excellent speci- Dessication : resistant
Stagnant water : vulnerable
men, dominant or edging plant in a park, too, if sheltered. It requires a rich dressing of fertiliser Irrigation : medium
in spring, and is susceptible to fireblight, root fungus and mealybugs. Maintenance is moderate Salinity/ppm : moderate (1500
and pruning is required from time to time to improve the tree’s shape and to thin out the interior Hardiness :
ppm)
-9°C
branches, to allow sunlight to reach inside. In this way, fruit-bearing will be increased.
SHAPE
Type : tree, shrub
Height : 3 m-8 m
Spread : 4 m-10 m
Foliage : evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : white
Size : 10 cm
Period : September -
December

FRUIT
Type of fruit : pome
Fruit size : 3 cm - 4 cm
Toxicity : produced for
food, edible, fruit

136
 Eucalyptus camaldulensis, Myrtaceae

Red Gum, River Red Gum, keenah, kafur

GENERAL
The Red Gum tree, known in Arabic as keenah or kafur, is the most common Eucalyptus to be
Origin : Mediterranean, seen in the Arriyadh region. Native to Australia, which claims over 500 species of the genus, it
sub-tropical,
tropical
has been introduced into many arid countries throughout the world, where they now have the
Humidity : semi-arid, semi- reputation of being invasive, too large and too greedy. Massive with a weeping habit and open
Propagation :
humid
sowing and
crown, it grows very rapidly to a height of 30 metres. Its familiar smooth bark is white and grey,
pricking out which, when shed in long strips, exposes a red colour underneath. Lanceolate, straight and curved
Maintenance : high leaves with a fragrant sap are a matt, blue-green; yellowish-white flowers occur in early summer
CONDITIONS
and the seed pods are pea-sized nutlets. E. camaldulensis requires full sun, and although drought
Urban climate : resistant tolerant, it will do better with periodic deep watering. It is very tolerant of all soils, even those wa-
Dessication : resistant terlogged and with a high pH and salinity, but is susceptible to chlorosis. Propagation is by seed.
Stagnant water : resistant
Irrigation : low
Frost-tolerant, the tree is valuable in giving shade, but it is too huge for garden planting. It plays
Salinity/ppm : very high (13000 an important role as a wind break, in reafforestation, stabilising watercourses, and is suitable
Hardiness :
ppm)
-9°C
for roadside planting and parks. E. camaldulensis has a habit of dropping large boughs without
warning – a form of self-pruning, but a major problem in urban areas. It is a high-maintenance
SHAPE tree, producing a large amount of leaf, bark and seed litter; its roots are deep, spreading and very
Type : tree aggressive. Young trees must be well-staked and pruned to create a strong vertical trunk.
Height : 25 m-35 m
Spread : 7 m-10 m
Foliage : evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : white, pale
yellow
Period : June - August
Smell : aroma, leaf, spicy

FRUIT
Type of fruit : capsule
Fruit size : 0.6 cm
Toxicity : inedible

137
 Eucalyptus globulus, Myrtaceae

Southern Blue Gum, keenah, kafur

The Blue Gum, known in Arabic as keenah or kafur, is one of the most extensively planted trees GENERAL
in its native country of Australia. It typically grows to 30 metres and more, and is similar in habit Origin : Mediterranean,
to E. camaldulensis with its peeling bark. When young, the leaves are broad, in opposite pairs and sub-tropical,
tropical
covered with a blue-grey bloom. The mature leaves are then narrow, curved and dark green, up to Humidity : semi-arid, semi-
20 cm in length. Cream-coloured flowers produce nectar yielding a typically flavoured honey. The Propagation :
humid
sowing and
roundish fruits bear many small seeds, shed through the top of the capsule. Like all eucalypts, it pricking out

has deep-spreading roots and grows rapidly, adapting to the conditions in of all arid regions. E. Maintenance : high

globulus is the most cultivated plantation tree in Australia, widely used as pulpwood and for fuel. CONDITIONS
The Blue Gum was often planted as a street tree in the past, but it is now regarded as unsuitable, Urban climate : resistant
owing to its mature size and high maintenance requirement. Some ecologists consider it to be Dessication : resistant

an invasive species, as well as a fire hazard. Nevertheless, it is one of several eucalypts suitable Stagnant water :
Irrigation :
vulnerable
low
for planting in the Arriyadh region as a wind break, in reafforestation, and stabilising slopes Salinity/ppm : low (1000 ppm)
and watercourses. Given space, it is suitable as a park tree. Other eucalypts worth mentioning Hardiness : -9°C

are E. citriodora (Lemon-Scented Gum), a graceful, frost-tender tree, often seen in Kuwait, and
SHAPE
E. microtheca (Coolibah), a widely distributed eucalypt, proven in Kuwait and very frost-hardy. Type : tree
Height : 12 m-30 m
Spread : 6 m-10 m
Foliage : evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : white
Period : January - March
Smell : scented, aroma,
strong, pleasantly
scented, leaf,
flower, sweet,
spicy

FRUIT
Type of fruit : capsule
Fruit size : 2 cm - 2.5 cm
Toxicity : inedible

138
 Eucalyptus gomphocephala, Myrtaceae

Gum, Tuart

GENERAL
Eucalyptus gomphocephala is a tall, wide-girthed, evergreen tree with its origins on the sou-
Origin : Mediterranean,
thwestern coast of Australia, where it reaches heights from 10 to 40 metres depending on loca-
sub-tropical,
tropical
tion, growing on hilly terrain on limestone overlain by sand. Known there as Tuart, it has been
Humidity : semi-arid, semi- cultivated in many arid countries. It has a dense crown with large spreading, nearly upright
Propagation :
humid
sowing and
branches. The fibrous, fissured bark is light grey, and does not shed like other gum trees. Leaves
pricking out are narrowly lanceolate, up to 17 cm long and slightly curved, with a shiny grey-green colour.
Maintenance : high This species has white flowers in summer and autumn, and the seed capsules remain on trees for a
CONDITIONS
year or more. E. gomphocephala tolerates drought, strong winds and alkaline, moderately saline
Urban climate : resistant soils. It will grow on less fertile soils than E. camaldulensis, but is not tolerant of waterlogging.
Dessication : resistant Hardy only to –6°C, it produces very dense, durable wood, which is termite-resistant and used for
Stagnant water : vulnerable
Irrigation : low
construction purposes. It is also an excellent honey producer. It is easily propagated from seed.
Salinity/ppm : moderate (1800 Extremely useful as a windbreak and in a shelterbelt, although sensitive to fire, it has high wild-
ppm)
life value. It has been widely planted as a shade-giving tree and roadside tree, but as with other
Hardiness : -6°C
large Eucalyptus trees it is not recommended for this in Arriyadh. It is susceptible to the eucalypt
SHAPE borer and some fungi, especially on dry sites. Its roots will compete with adjacent plants and will
Type : tree invade water pipes and tanks, as well as lifting pavements.
Height : 10 m-40 m
Spread : 6 m-12 m
Foliage : evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : white
Period : July - September
Smell : aroma, leaf, spicy

FRUIT
Type of fruit : capsule
Fruit size : 2 cm
Toxicity : inedible

139
 Euphorbia milii var. splendens, Euphorbiaceae

Crown of Thorns

This succulent is native to Madagascar: it is often seen in Arriyadh in planters, usually with the GENERAL
intention of forming a barrier. Its edged stems are fleshy and able to store water while the foliage Origin : sub-tropical
is not thickened. The obovate, dark-green leaves are found on new growth only. Male and female Vigour : slow-growing

flowers are borne on the same plant, but both are inconspicuous. Nevertheless, a burst of colour Humidity : very arid, semi-
arid, semi-humid,
is shown in spring by bright-red bracts. Sparse flowering appears during the other seasons too. It very humid

is attractive all year round for its strange appearance of thorny shoots that made it deserve the Propagation : sowing and
pricking out,
common name Crown of Thorns. Injured plants exude a milky, poisonous sap that can irritate cuttings
Maintenance : moderate
skin. Pruning is not necessary, but is carried out to multiply the plant by cuttings. For this purpo-
se, tips of 10 cm length are cut and placed in water until the sap stops flowing. Afterwards, they CONDITIONS
should be allowed to dry before being dipped in rooting hormone and placed in a mix of sand, Urban climate : resistant

perlite and humus. Excellent drainage is essential for mature plants too, since both waterlogging Dessication
Stagnant water :
: resistant
vulnerable
and overwatering by sprinklers kill the plant, especially in winter. Partial sun suits it best and Irrigation : low
extends the lifespan of the foliage. Drought is tolerated when the plants are established, but it also Salinity/ppm : moderate (1500
ppm)
limits the endurance of the leaves. Slow-releasing fertilisers can be applied in spring to ensure a Hardiness : 0°C
healthy appearance and an impressive floral display. Scale insects may infest plants on inappro-
priate sites. Frosts are not tolerated and immediately damage the foliage. SHAPE
Type : cacti, succulents
Height : 0.5 m-2 m
Spread : 0.5 m-1.5 m
Foliage : semi-evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : bright red
Size : 1.3 cm
Period : February - April

FRUIT
Type of fruit : capsule
Fruit size : 0.4 cm
Toxicity : poisonous

140
 Euphorbia tirucalli, Euphorbiaceae

Pencil Bush

GENERAL
The Pencil Bush may be found growing wild in Madagascar and southeastern Africa, where it
Origin : sub-tropical,
sometimes forms large trees of 10 to 15 metres in height. In cultivation and especially in Arriyadh,
tropical it is a multi-branched shrub with a noteworthy shape and some 4 metres in height. Its cylindrical
Vigour : fairly fast
growing branches are dull green and measure about 8 mm in diameter, just like a common pencil. They
Humidity : very arid, semi-
arid, semi-humid,
give this fast-growing plant the appearance of a giant round brush. Mature bark turns grey and
very humid occasionally shows harmless swellings and black bands. The linear foliage is short-lived and lea-
Propagation : sowing and
pricking out,
ves small dents that give a pattern to the branches. In autumn, clusters of tiny yellow flowers ap-
cuttings pear without much visual impact. Subsequent capsules measure 12 mm across and dehisce while
Maintenance : moderate
still on the plant. Seeds, but also cuttings, are used to propagate the plant. Cuttings’ loss of sap
CONDITIONS
should first staunch in water and dry for a few days thereafter. Any injury immediately releases
Urban climate : resistant latex that cause blisters on the skin and is poisonous if ingested. On the other hand, it is used
Dessication : resistant as an antidote for snake bites. Plants should not grow next to a pond, since they are toxic to fish.
Stagnant water : vulnerable
Irrigation : low
Pencil Bushes tolerate some salinity, drought and, surprisingly, they tolerate poor drainage better
Salinity/ppm : moderate (2500 than other succulent shrubs. However, supplemental irrigation should be omitted in autumn and
Hardiness :
ppm)
-3°C
ceased in winter in order to achieve healthy plants. The plant looks best amongst boulders in rock
gardens or grouped on embankments along roads, where it tolerates full sun.
SHAPE
Type : cacti, succulents
Height : 4 m-15 m
Spread : 3 m-10 m
Foliage : semi-evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : pale green
Period : July - September

FRUIT
Type of fruit : capsule
Fruit size : 0.8 cm - 1.2 cm
Toxicity : highly poisonous

141
 Faidherbia albida, Mimosaceae

Apple-Ring Acacia, Ana Tree, harraz

The Ana Tree, formerly known as Acacia albida, and in Arabic as harraz, is native to Africa and GENERAL
introduced into the Middle East, India and Pakistan. It is a large, very thorny, deciduous tree Origin : tropical
reaching 30 metres in height in its native habitats on floodplains and dry watercourses. A fast- Humidity : very arid, semi-
arid, semi-humid
growing tree with a thick trunk and zigzag branching habit, the pale grey-green leaves are borne Propagation : direct sowing
on whitish-grey, smooth stems and branches when young, which become grey and rough when Maintenance : low

older. The straight, whitish thorns are up to 40 mm long. The bark is grey, and fissured when
CONDITIONS
old. Scented, pale cream-coloured flowers in long spikes occur from March to September, and Urban climate : vulnerable
are followed by large, unusually twisted, fruit pods, bright orange in colour. F. albida has a deep Dessication : resistant
tap root, making it very drought-resistant, and it will grow in waterlogged soils and withstand Stagnant water : resistant

occasional frost. For propagation, its seeds should first be treated with boiling water overnight Irrigation
Salinity/ppm
:
:
none
moderate (1800
before sowing. Young plants develop long tap roots and should be planted in the ground quickly. ppm)

The tree is particularly useful in nitrogen fixation and erosion control, and is highly valued in Hardiness : 0°C

agroforestry. It also has medicinal properties in the treatment of infections. Susceptible to mea- SHAPE
lybugs and scale, it can be treated with systemic insecticides. Large areas of the Sahara in Niger Type : tree
have been re-afforested with the Ana Tree, with great success. With its white twigs and thorns, it Height : 15 m-25 m
Spread : 10 m-14 m
is an interesting specimen tree in a park or large garden with only low maintenance requirements. Foliage : deciduous

FLOWER
Colour : yellow
Size : 10 cm
Period : May - June
Smell : flower

FRUIT
Type of fruit : pod
Fruit size : 30 cm

142
 Ficus altissima, Moraceae

Council Tree, Lofty Fig

GENERAL
The Council Tree, also known as Lofty Fig, is a large-leaved, fast-growing tree with its origins
Origin : sub-tropical, in India. In Arriyadh, it has become a very common and successful tree, having been planted in
Vigour :
tropical
fast growing
major projects in the city, mostly on roadsides and squares. Tall, up to 20 metres in height, it has
Humidity : semi-arid, semi- a wide, spreading crown and, in time, develops drooping, aerial roots. Trees sometimes develop
humid, very
humid
multiple trunks. Its simple, glabrous and elliptical leaves measure up to 25 cm in length and have
Propagation : cuttings, aerial pronounced white veins, making it distinguishable from other large-leaved Ficus trees. The fruits
layering, sowing
and pricking out
are similar to those of the edible fig, but more rounded in shape, and are orange-coloured when
Maintenance : moderate ripe. The bark is typically a light silver grey and is an attractive contrast to the leaves in the sha-
de. F. altissima requires deep fertile soils, but grows well in sandy soil and tolerates both salinity
CONDITIONS
Urban climate : resistant
and drought; however, regular irrigation is a necessity. Propagation is by softwood cuttings, air-
Dessication : vulnerable layering on branches or by seed. It is not particularly prone to pests, but can appear cholorotic
Stagnant water : vulnerable at times. F. altissima lends a lush, tropical appearance to a planting scheme, but unfortunately is
Irrigation : medium
Salinity/ppm : high (5000 ppm)
not frost-tolerant. Providing excellent shade from Arriyadh’s relentless sun, it tends to shade out
Hardiness : 0°C plants growing beneath. It is a magnificent tree as a specimen in a park, and is also suitable for
large gardens. Only moderate maintenance is required.
SHAPE
Type : tree
Height : 12 m-20 m
Spread : 12 m-20 m
Foliage : evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : green
Size : 0.5 cm
Period : March - April

FRUIT
Type of fruit : drupe(fleshy/
juicy)
Fruit size : 1.5 cm - 2 cm
Toxicity : inedible, fruit

143
 Ficus benghalensis, Moraceae

Banyan Tree

The Banyan is a large and fast-growing tree originating in northwest India in the foothills of GENERAL
the Himalayas. As an epiphyte, it starts life when the seeds germinate in crevices between the Origin : tropical
branches of the host tree. Often seen in parks in Arriyadh, it develops into a majestic tree, given Vigour : fast growing

sufficient space. It will reach a height of up to 30 metres and as much as 18 metres in width with Humidity : semi-humid, very
humid
a short, stout trunk with smooth, grey bark. In maturity, it typically produces aerial roots from Propagation : cuttings, aerial
its outstretched heavy limbs, which hang downwards from the branches in a dense network and Maintenance :
layering
moderate
ultimately help to support the main trunk. Rooting in new ground, the tree then takes on a new
lease of life. This development, while common in India, is not observed in Arriyadh. The large, CONDITIONS
ovate and obtuse leaves are a glabrous dark green; newly sprouted leaves are a startling red. Ol- Urban climate : resistant
Dessication : vulnerable
der leaves fall regularly after the new ones have grown, so that all leaves are gradually replaced Stagnant water : vulnerable
throughout the year. Fruits are fig-like and red when ripe, and are eaten by bats. The roots run flat Irrigation : medium

below the surface and are particularly extensive. F. benghalensis prefers a deep fertile soil, but will Salinity/ppm : high (5000 ppm)
Hardiness : -3°C
grow on sandy soils with regular irrigation in full sun. Trees have medium drought and salinity
tolerance, and are also quite hardy to frosts. Propagation is by softwood cuttings and air-layering SHAPE
on branches. The Banyan tree makes an excellent specimen tree in parks and public squares. Leaf Type : tree

litter is a maintenance item and good pruning is required to keep the tree in shape. Height
Spread
:
:
10 m-30 m
10 m-18 m
Foliage : evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : pale green
Size : 0.4 cm
Period : March - April

FRUIT
Type of fruit : drupe(fleshy/
juicy)
Fruit size : 1 cm - 2 cm
Toxicity : inedible, fruit

144
 Ficus benjamina, Moraceae

Benjamina, Weeping Fig

GENERAL
The Weeping Fig, native to southeast Asia, is a lushly tropical and elegant tree, more likely to
Origin : sub-tropical,
be found as an indoor plant in Arriyadh than growing outdoors. Popular throughout the world
tropical in homes, offices and shopping malls, F. benjamina will withstand Arriyadh’s climate, but only
Humidity : semi-humid, very
humid when fully protected in a garden. In the past, it was occasionally found outdoors, but heavy frosts
Propagation : cuttings, aerial
layering
and scorching sun in recent years have caused its disappearance. With its dense foliage and gra-
Maintenance : moderate
cefully weeping branches, it will grow relatively quickly in a favourable location to a height of 15
metres with equal spread. Glossy, dark-green, ovate leaves with pointed tips grow up to 10 cm
CONDITIONS long. The fruit is very small and red when ripe. In Arriyadh it is best in a warm-winter patio or
Urban climate : vulnerable
Dessication : vulnerable
garden in semi-shade. F. benjamina prefers deep, moist soils with good drainage and requires
Stagnant water : vulnerable regular irrigation, more during the first years, and after establishment it will withstand short pe-
Irrigation : high riods of drought. It needs wind protection when young. Propagation is by cuttings or air-layering.
Salinity/ppm : moderate (2000
ppm) Occasionally cholorotic in Arriyadh’s soils, trees are prone to attacks by mealybugs. Expanding
Hardiness : 0°C roots can be invasive and cause damage to underground pipes and paving; they also make it diffi-
SHAPE
cult for other plants to grow close by. As accent or focal point trees, they are also very attractive
Type : tree, shrub
in containers. Trees can be clipped to shape and regular pruning will improve appearance, but
Height : 3 m-15 m pruning must be drastic if the branches are caught by a hard frost.
Spread : 2 m-15 m
Foliage : evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : pale yellow
Period : April - May

FRUIT
Type of fruit : drupe(fleshy/
juicy)
Fruit size : 0.5 cm

145
 Ficus carica, Moraceae

Common Fig, teen

The common Fig, or teen in Arabic, is a small, deciduous tree, native to the Mediterranean and GENERAL
often seen in Arriyadh growing on farms, in gardens and as escapees from cultivation. A fairly Origin : sub-Mediterranean,
fast-growing tree, up to 9 metres high with a 3-metre spread, it has a short, heavy trunk with Mediterranean,
sub-tropical
smooth, silvery bark and spreading branches. The leaves are large and rough-textured with three Humidity : semi-arid, semi-
to five lobes. Depending on the variety, of which there are many, the sweet, pear-shaped, edible Propagation :
humid
cuttings, aerial
fruits can be yellow, green, purple or black in colour when ripe. Plants require protection from layering

the wind, full sun to partial shade, and will endure long dry periods, but for fruiting and general Maintenance : moderate

appearance, deep watering every month during the summer, with less water in winter, is neces- CONDITIONS
sary. They grow well in poor soils, but need good drainage and are not very tolerant of salty or Urban climate : resistant
alkaline soils. Generally frost-tolerant, a tree will often lose its leaves in winter. However, a hard Dessication : vulnerable

freeze can result in dieback of the branches. Propagation is by cuttings, air-layering and root Stagnant water :
Irrigation :
vulnerable
medium
suckering. Apart from its use as a cultivated fruit tree, F. carica is a tree with bold foliage and an Salinity/ppm : moderate (2000
irregular trunk, which also has ornamental value for a garden. It makes a good background plant ppm)
Hardiness : -12°C
or screen in a park and is attractive in its leafless state, because of the picturesque character of
its branches. It is also suitable for training on a wall and for planting in containers. Pruning is SHAPE
required to maintain the canopy and improve fruit production. Type : tree, shrub
Height : 9 m-15 m
Spread : 3 m-12 m
Foliage : deciduous

FLOWER
Colour : green
Size : 0.5 cm
Period : May - June

FRUIT
Type of fruit : drupe(fleshy/
juicy)
Fruit size : 8 cm - 7 cm
Toxicity : produced for
food, fruit

146
 Ficus microcarpa ‘Panda’, Moraceae

Chinese Laurel Fig

GENERAL
This Ficus is a curiosity in that it is usually grown commercially as a bonsai tree. It was first seen
Origin : sub-tropical,
in containers in Arriyadh nurseries and has been planted outside shops and restaurant windows,
tropical principally because it grows compactly and can easily be pruned to shape. Often available in a
Vigour : fast growing
Humidity : semi-arid, semi-
spherical shape on a stem, F. panda shares all of the requirements of F. m. var. nitida, and the
humid, very
humid
same applies to its ability to withstand frost and sun. It has light, almost round, thick leaves,
Propagation : cuttings, aerial
which alternate up the stem and a brown to reddish bark dotted with small horizontal flecks. It
layering can be propagated easily from cuttings. It suffers from several diseases, including black fly, scale,
Maintenance : high
thrips and eelworm, as well as fungus and rot. Probably a variety of Ficus microcarpa, it seems
CONDITIONS to have originated in nurseries catering for indoor plants and was then exported to nurseries in
Urban climate : resistant the Gulf States, where it has thrived in the coastal climate and made an excellent hedge plant. In
Dessication
Stagnant water :
: vulnerable
vulnerable
the US, two new forms of F. microcarpa entered the Florida trade in the mid 1970s (CE) under
Irrigation : medium the names Ficus ‘Green Island’ and Ficus microcarpa var. crassifolia ‘Green Mound’. Both have
Salinity/ppm : moderate (2000 been sold as Ficus ‘Panda’ or Ficus americana ‘Panda’ in Europe. They tend to spread out and are
ppm)
Hardiness : 0°C
easy to train as a ground-hugging shrub. For best results, F. panda is best planted in a sheltered
position, in the humid environment of a well-irrigated garden. F. panda is also a good screening
SHAPE or background shrub that needs almost no pruning to stay dense and trim.
Type : tree
Height : 8 m-25 m
Spread : 8 m-20 m
Foliage : evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : pale yellow
Period : April - May

FRUIT
Type of fruit : drupe(fleshy/
juicy)
Fruit size : 0.6 cm - 1 cm

147
 Ficus microcarpa var. nitida, Moraceae

Indian Laurel

The Indian Laurel is another species of Ficus, which has largely disappeared from Arriyadh, ow- GENERAL
ing to its lack of frost tolerance. Native to India, it is often found in North Africa and the Middle Origin : sub-tropical,
East growing as a majestic shade tree. In Arriyadh, however, the species was formerly used to line tropical
Vigour : slow-growing
many streets, and was often seen in clipped shapes on the lawns of parks during the 1970s (CE). Humidity : semi-humid, very
Since then, the trees have slowly become less prominent in the city, as heavy frosts took their toll. humid
Propagation : cuttings, aerial
It grows at a moderate rate to a height of 8 metres, and equal spread with strongly ascending, layering
erect branches and smooth, glossy bright green leaves. Tolerant of many soils, it grows well in Maintenance : moderate

sand and does best in a fertile, moist soil. Tolerance to salinity is only medium. F. microcarpa var.
CONDITIONS
nitida requires full sun and is tolerant of high temperatures and low humidity, although it thrives Dessication : vulnerable
better with high humidity, as in Jeddah. It should be irrigated regularly in summer and will re- Stagnant water : vulnerable

quire deep watering only occasionally in the winter. Propagation is by cuttings and air-layering. Irrigation : medium
Salinity/ppm : moderate (2000
F. microcarpa var. nitida is a variety of F. microcarpa (also known as F. retusa), which has larger ppm)
leaves and longer, pendulous branches. Like many other Ficus species, its roots can be aggressive Hardiness : 0°C

and buckle hard paving. Indian Laurel is prone to attacks by mites, mealybugs, thrips and scale. SHAPE
Suitable for gardens and containers, it is an excellent tree for public open spaces, and pathway Type : shrub
shade, where the winters are warm and frost-free. Height : 1 m-3 m
Spread : 0.5 m-2 m
Foliage : evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : pale yellow
Period : April - May

FRUIT
Type of fruit : drupe(fleshy/
juicy)
Fruit size : 1 cm

148
 Ficus pseudosycomorus, Moraceae

Sycamore Fig, Wild Fig, jumais, hammat

GENERAL
The Wild Fig (jumais or hammat in Arabic) is related to the cultivated fig tree and can be found
Origin : Mediterranean,
in sheltered ravines and outcrops in many places in the ArArriyadh region. The tree grows ra-
sub-tropical,
tropical
pidly to 5 metres in height with many branches from the bottom of the trunk. The dense foliage
Humidity : semi-arid, semi- is comprised of simple, leathery, dark-green leaves up to 10 cm long. Small flowers appear from
humid, extremely
humid
spring to early summer followed by tiny figs, which are edible and yellow, when ripe. The fruit
Propagation : sowing and also has medicinal properties. F. pseudosycomorus grows on rocky cliffsides, where it sends out
pricking out,
cuttings long roots. Extremely drought-tolerant, it is also to be found at the foot of slopes in gravelly
Maintenance : moderate sands. The tree has a low tolerance to salinity. Propagation is by seed and cuttings. The Wild Fig
is browsed by camels, so that many trees are stunted and cropped down to a low bush, where
CONDITIONS
Urban climate : resistant
camels have reached them. F. pseudo-sycomorus has landscape value for planting on rocky slopes.
Dessication : resistant It requires very little maintenance and the occasional deep watering in summer will improve the
Stagnant water : resistant appearance of its foliage
Irrigation : low
Salinity/ppm : high (3500 ppm)
Hardiness : -6°C

SHAPE
Type : tree, shrub
Height : 10 m
Spread : 8m
Foliage : evergreen, semi-
evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : green
Size : 0.5 cm
Period : May - June

FRUIT
Type of fruit : drupe(fleshy/
juicy)
Fruit size : 2 cm - 3 cm
Toxicity : edible, fruit

149
 Ficus pumila, Moraceae

Creeping Fig

A very common creeper in tropical countries originating in Asia, the Creeping Fig is a vigorous, GENERAL
self-clinging, evergreen vine that attaches itself to surfaces via aerial rootlets. Its small leaves are Origin : Mediterranean,
heart-shaped in their juvenile state, forming an interesting pattern on a wall, while the plant is sub-tropical
Vigour : fairly fast
still young; later, the leaves become much larger, up to 10 cm long, oblong and leathery, when ma- growing
ture. The vine will then cover large areas of the wall completely and quickly. A mature plant will Humidity : semi-humid, very
humid
reach 5 metres and more and develop woody branches which stand out up to 60 cm from a wall. Propagation : cuttings, sowing
Flowers are insignificant and rare, as are the fig-like but inedible fruits which occasionally appear and pricking out
Maintenance : low
on plants throughout the year. F. pumila will climb on most surfaces and is good on trellises, in
shady locations especially on north- or east-facing walls, where it grows best in Arriyadh. Mor- CONDITIONS
ning sun is tolerated. Propagation is by seed, cuttings or offsets. Best in fertile garden soil, it is Urban climate : resistant

sometimes subject to root knot nematodes and root rot. Frost damage is caused at –10°C, but the Dessication
Stagnant water :
: vulnerable
vulnerable
vine will survive with warmth radiated from a supporting wall. It requires moderate, but regular Irrigation : high
irrigation. Maintenance is low, but the plant can become a nuisance if it gets out of control and Salinity/ppm : moderate (3000
ppm)
it can be difficult to remove from a wall – top-heavy plants, on the other hand, may peel away. It Hardiness : -12°C
can be cut to the ground to encourage new juvenile growth or to prevent it becoming too invasive.
The variety ‘Minima’ retains the small leaf form for a longer period. SHAPE
Type : climbers
Height : 2.5 m-4 m
Spread : 2 m-12 m
Foliage : evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : pale red
Size : 0.5 cm
Period : March - May

FRUIT
Type of fruit : drupe(fleshy/
juicy)
Fruit size : 5 cm
Toxicity : inedible, fruit

150
 Ficus religiosa, Moraceae

Bo-Tree, Peepul, fikas lissan al asfour

GENERAL
The Peepul Tree, known in Arabic as lissan al asfour, is native to the Indian sub-continent and
Origin : tropical
southeast Asia. It is a very large, erect and elegant semi-deciduous tree, which reaches a height
Vigour : fast growing of 20 metres in Arriyadh with a spread of up to 10 metres. Its trunk can have great proportions,
Humidity : semi-arid, semi-
humid, very
sometimes up to 3 metres in diameter. The gracefully hanging leaves are a distinctive, dark green,
humid attractively veined, with a long, pointed tip, something like the beak of a bird, hence its Arabic
Propagation : sowing and
pricking out,
name. They are up to 15 cm long and ovate to 12 cm. New leaf growth is pinkish in colour. Gree-
cuttings, aerial
layering
nish, insignificant flowers are borne in spring. The fruits are sessile figs turning purple when ripe.
Maintenance : moderate F. religiosa prefers a sunny position and a deep, fertile, mildly alkaline soil. With its shallow roots,
it often forms above-ground buttress roots at maturity and, depending on the location, the tree’s
CONDITIONS
Urban climate : resistant
roots therefore may become a nuisance, especially if there is insufficient space and when paving
Dessication : vulnerable
is buckled. The tree requires regular irrigation, but will not tolerate waterlogging and it is only
Stagnant water : vulnerable moderately tolerant to salinity and hard frosts. Propagation is by seed, hardwood cuttings or sim-
Irrigation : high ple layering. It is occasionally prone to red spider mites. Pruning will help to keep its shape, but
Salinity/ppm : high (4500 ppm)
Hardiness : -3°C
care must be taken not to spoil its natural habit. This majestic tree can be used as a specimen tree
in parks and large gardens. It provides good shade along pathways and can be planted in urban
SHAPE open spaces, where there is room, and wide road medians.
Type : tree
Height : 20 m-30 m
Spread : 10 m-18 m
Foliage : semi-evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : pale green
Size : 0.3 cm
Period : March - May

FRUIT
Type of fruit : drupe(fleshy/
juicy)
Fruit size : 1 cm
Toxicity : inedible, fruit

151
 Ficus rubiginosa, Moraceae

Rusty Fig, Rustyleaf Fig

The Rusty Fig, native to Australia, is a broad, densely shading, evergreen tree that may reach GENERAL
30 metres in height, spreading up to 15 metres when mature, making huge specimen trees. It also Origin : Mediterranean,
often makes an attractive multi-trunked tree. Rather slow-growing, a buttressed trunk is eventu- sub-tropical,
tropical
ally formed, which can reach 1.5 metres in diameter: the bark has a yellow-brown colour. Its ovate Vigour : fast growing
to oval-shaped leaves are 6–10 cm long: the brown, short fuzz and rusty colour of the undersides Humidity : semi-humid, very
humid, extremely
of the leaves give the tree its name. The inedible figs ripen from yellow to red. In humid climates, humid

the lower branches of the tree form aerial roots. F. rubiginosa tolerates many types of soil, even Propagation : cuttings, aerial
layering
where compacted and poorly draining, and will grow well under arid conditions. It prefers full Maintenance : moderate
sun, but also grows in partial shade; regular irrigation is required in summer, less in winter.
Once established, it can withstand short periods of drought and frosts, and withstands more cold CONDITIONS
Urban climate : resistant
in Arriyadh than other Ficus species. It is easily propagated by cuttings or aerial layering. Scale Dessication : vulnerable
insect may become a problem. F. rubiginosa is an excellent ornamental tree; however, it can be Stagnant water : vulnerable

planted only in very large private gardens, owing to its aggressive root system, which can damage Irrigation : high
Salinity/ppm : moderate (3000
underground pipes and foundations. It makes a very good shade tree in parks and is tolerant of ppm)
urban microclimates. It is also a valuable plant for wildlife. Trees should be carefully pruned from Hardiness : -3°C

the outset to create a good structure: by removing some branches an open form can be achieved. SHAPE
Type : tree
Height : 6 m-30 m
Spread : 8 m-15 m
Foliage : evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : pale yellow
Size : 0.2 cm
Period : March - April

FRUIT
Type of fruit : drupe(fleshy/
juicy)
Fruit size : 2 cm
Toxicity : inedible, fruit

152
 Ficus salicifolia, Moraceae

Willow Leaf Fig, athab

GENERAL
This Ficus, native to Saudi Arabia and many parts of Africa, is known in Arabic as athab. It is
Origin : Mediterranean,
found in wadi beds, on cliffsides and among rocky outcrops in the Arriyadh region, where it
sub-tropical,
tropical
reaches a height of 10 metres or more, with an equal spread. The crown of this evergreen tree is
Humidity : extremely arid, rounded and the branches on the short, smooth trunk are so low that they rest on the ground.
very arid, semi-
arid
The glaucous, blue-green, narrow and lanceolate leaves, up to 17 cm long and 3 cm wide, are
Propagation : sowing and willow-like with pointed tips. The very small figs, borne on short stalks, turn dark red when ripe.
pricking out,
cuttings, aerial F. salicifolia prefers the alluvial, sometimes moist, soil of a dry watercourse, but will also grow
layering on gravelly, shallow, coarse-textured ground. It is relatively drought-tolerant and needs regular
Maintenance : low
irrigation until it is established. Thereafter, deep watering in summer will suffice. Frost-tolerant,
CONDITIONS the tree requires full sun; it will also grow in the shade of a high cliffside. Propagation is by seed,
Urban climate : vulnerable cuttings or air layering. Since it is not browsed by animals, the leaves may contain a poisonous
Dessication : resistant
Stagnant water : vulnerable
sap. The tree may become prone to scale insects. F. salicifolia has a good potential for use in lands-
Irrigation : low, medium cape design in Arriyadh. It creates a lush, green accent in a desert landscape, and can be planted
Salinity/ppm : moderate (2500
ppm)
along roadsides. It also makes a good screen and container plant.
Hardiness : -6°C

SHAPE
Type : tree
Height : 6 m-10 m
Spread : 6 m-10 m
Foliage : evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : pale green
Period : March - April

FRUIT
Type of fruit : drupe(fleshy/
juicy)
Fruit size : 1 cm

153
 Gardenia augusta, Rubiaceae

Gardenia, Cape Jasmine

In subtropical China, one may find the Gardenia or Cape Jasmine growing wild to a shrub of GENERAL
about 1.5 metres in height and a little more in width. Its shiny, evergreen foliage is very attractive Origin : sub-tropical,
and measures some 10 cm in length. The magnificently scented flowers appear in spring. Their tropical
Vigour : slow-growing
ivory petals contrast well with the dark-green leaves. Cultivars often show double flowers and even Humidity : semi-humid, very
variegated foliage. Berries contain seeds that are embedded in an orange pulp. Established plants humid, extremely
humid
withstand full sun if the water supply is excellent. They generally do better with some afternoon Propagation : cuttings
shade without reducing the floral splendour. If planted in the ground, the soil must be enriched Maintenance : moderate

with peat or compost. As heavy feeders, they should receive frequent fertilisation in early spring,
CONDITIONS
early summer and early autumn with an acid type. Irrigation must be regular and thorough, with Urban climate : vulnerable
the lowest possible salt content. Gardenias are prone to overwatering, both in poor-draining soil Dessication : vulnerable

and in containers. Apart from this sensitivity, they do well in pots and troughs, since they grow Stagnant water : vulnerable
Irrigation : high
quite slowly to become a dense bush and are not harmed if they become rootbound. Pruning Salinity/ppm : low (1000 ppm)
can be done in autumn, but is rarely necessary to shape these compact bushes. Gardenias are Hardiness : -6°C
also susceptible to a black mould which forms on the leaves, as well as nematodes, but the plants’
SHAPE
beauty is worth the effort to replace infested soil. G. augusta is an ideal shrub only for a small- Type : shrub
sized garden without exposure to full sun or strong winds. It is not always successful in Arriyadh. Height : 0.3 m-1.5 m
Spread : 0.5 m-1.8 m
Foliage : evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : white
Size : 8 cm
Period : May - August
Smell : scented, strong,
gives freely of
its scent, flower,
sweet, fruity

FRUIT
Type of fruit : berry
Fruit size : 4 cm

154
 Gazania rigens var. leucolaena, Asteraceae

Treasure Flower

GENERAL
This is the toughest Gazania variety surviving frost, salinity and drought. These characteristics
Origin : Mediterranean, make it well adaptable to various habitats in its homeland, South Africa, but also in Arriyadh,
sub-tropical,
tropical
where it is a very dependable groundcover. Although resistant to dry soil, it appreciates frequent
Vigour : normal growth watering in gritty soil that allows good drainage. It needs a place in full sun where the flowers
Humidity :
rate
very arid, semi-
open during the day to close at dusk. Bright-yellow flowers appear most prolifically from spring to
arid, semi-humid summer, and occasionally in other seasons. Only few plants produce as glorious a show of colour
Propagation : sowing and
pricking out,
as this Treasure Flower every year, under the most adverse circumstances. The plants creep mo-
cuttings, division derately quickly with sparsely branched stems reaching some 40 cm in length. Its alternate leaves
Maintenance : moderate
are about 10 cm long and 3 cm wide with an obovate shape. The name leucolaena is derived from
CONDITIONS the Greek word for a white cloak, referring to the tomentose leaves. It makes an ideal groundcover
Urban climate : resistant in a rockery, but its silvery foliage also contrasts well in mixed borders and beddings with massed
Dessication : resistant
plantings. On top and underneath, the leaves are woolly-hairy. After some years, this Gazania
Stagnant water : vulnerable
Irrigation : medium
sometimes sheds older leaves at the base and needs either hard pruning to regrow, or otherwise
Salinity/ppm : moderate (2500 the entire plant needs replacement. Some cultivars have been selected with an even more prolific
ppm)
Hardiness : -6°C
floral display such as ‘Sunglow’ and ‘Yellow Star’. Treasure Flowers grow readily from seed sown
in early spring. Cultivars are better propagated by division or cuttings both in spring or autumn.
SHAPE
Type : perennial
Height : 0.3 m
Spread : 0.5 m
Foliage : evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : yellow
Size : 6 cm
Period : March - June

FRUIT
Type of fruit : achene
Fruit size : 0.3 cm

155
 Gazania rigens var. rigens, Asteraceae

Trailing Gazania

Treasure Flowers originate from the northwestern Cape, South Africa, and are now found both GENERAL
in warm countries as perennials and in colder climates grown seasonally. Peduncles of some 10 Origin : Mediterranean,
cm in length raise the solitary flowers distinctly above the leaves. The foliage is hairless on top sub-tropical,
tropical
but hirsute beneath. The flowers bear a ring of yellow, golden or orange rays which are sterile and Vigour : fairly fast
centred by a black eye of fertile disc florets. The composite flowers may differ in size from 4 to Humidity :
growing
semi-arid, semi-
8 cm across. This variety is not known to grow wild, but from cultivation only. Gazanias grow humid

well in poor soil and tolerate the frost that may occur in Arriyadh, where it is a very dependa- Propagation : sowing and
pricking out,
ble groundcover. They can be used anywhere in gardens and parks as groundcover to hide dry cuttings, division

earth. They are highly decorative in rock gardens and useful on embankments to prevent erosion. Maintenance : moderate

Gazanias tolerate a remarkable amount of salt in the ground. They quickly establish themselves CONDITIONS
after transplanting and tolerate drought. Maintenance is limited to lifting and dividing the plants Urban climate : resistant

when they become overcrowded. They may naturalise within irrigated areas, but rarely become Dessication : resistant
Stagnant water : vulnerable
weedy. Cultivars show many different colours within the same inflorescence, and some even dou- Irrigation : medium
ble flowers. They easily hybridise to result in numerous variations that are hard to distinguish or Salinity/ppm : moderate (2500
ppm)
to allocate. The name rigens means rigid, which may refer to the pointed bracts. Gazanias are Hardiness : -9°C
pollinated by many different insects. The fruit is endued with long hairs that are easily dispersed
by the wind. SHAPE
Type : perennial,
biennial, annual
Height : 0.15 m-0.3 m
Spread : 0.4 m-1.2 m
Foliage : evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : yellow, orange
Size : 4 cm - 8 cm
Period : March - August

FRUIT
Type of fruit : achene
Fruit size : 0.3 cm

156
 Gazania rigens var. uniflora, Asteraceae

Trailing Gazania

GENERAL
The Trailing Gazania does not present as spectacular flowers as its relatives, but still makes one of
Origin : Mediterranean, the most useful perennials to have. It grows wild in South Africa and Mozambique; in Arriyadh,
sub-tropical
it is a very dependable groundcover. In parks and large gardens with adverse growing conditions
Vigour : normal growth
rate such as dry, exposed sites, it performs better than other groundcovers. It grows prostrate and
Humidity : very arid, semi-
arid, semi-humid,
blankets the bare ground fairly quickly. The glabrous leaves are long and slender, appearing green
very humid in light shade, but somewhat silvery if fully exposed to sunlight. They persist in winter and wi-
Propagation : sowing and
pricking out,
thstand low temperatures and even light frosts, but they sometimes look poor in scorching heat.
cuttings, division Drought is tolerated, but the plants appreciate occasional watering. In spring and summer, bright
Maintenance : low
yellow flowers with centres in the same colour appear, measuring about 3 to 4 cm across. Remo-
CONDITIONS ving spent flowers results in extra inflorescences. They close during the night and do not open
Urban climate : resistant on overcast days. After pollination, they develop fuzzy, white seeds. These readily germinate, but
Dessication : vulnerable
offspring may also be achieved by cuttings or division, when the stems root where they touch the
Stagnant water : vulnerable
Irrigation : medium
soil. This Gazania is the ideal plant to grow over dry banks or to cascade over walls or edges of
Salinity/ppm : moderate (2500 tubs. It may be clipped to shape, creating cutwork parterres. It is generally pest-free and resists
ppm)
Hardiness : -6°C
diseases if good air circulation is possible. Flowers close if water is applied by sprinklers. On ap-
propriate sites, the Trailing Gazania is almost maintenance-free.
SHAPE
Type : perennial
Height : 0.2 m-0.4 m
Spread : 0.4 m-0.7 m
Foliage : evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : bright yellow
Size : 3 cm - 4 cm
Period : March - June

FRUIT
Type of fruit : achene
Fruit size : 0.3 cm

157
 Grevillea robusta, Proteaceae

Grevillea, Silk Oak

The Silk Oak is a strong, enduring tree that reaches a maximum height of 50 metres. However, GENERAL
such growth can be expected only in its native country, Australia. Although it grows quite fast, Origin : Mediterranean,
it will usually not exceed 13 metres, especially in Arriyadh. The tree has a conical, upright form. sub-tropical,
tropical
Fern-like, lacy leaves are shiny green on top and silvery below, while the showy orange flowers are Vigour : fast growing
borne in large clusters on the branches, usually when the tree is in a semi-deciduous state after Humidity : semi-arid, semi-
humid
the winter. Silk Oaks are considered evergreen, but foliage may be shed owing to cold, or when Propagation : sowing and
the new leaves appear. It will tolerate a wide variety of soils, but these should be well drained. pricking out,
cuttings
Waterlogging and alkaline desert soils limit the speed of growth and cause iron chlorosis. The Maintenance : moderate
wood is brittle and wind exposure may cause branches to die back or break off. Propagation is by
seed or cuttings. G. robusta is a background tree for use in parks and in public squares. A mature CONDITIONS
Urban climate : vulnerable
tree makes a picturesque silhouette against the sky. Heavy pruning is possible, but may spoil the Dessication : vulnerable
columnar or pyramidal shape. It has toxic qualities. Grevilleas may sometimes cause painful skin Stagnant water : vulnerable

irritation. Regular irrigation is necessary at first, but a mature tree is generally drought-resistant Irrigation : medium
Salinity/ppm : moderate (2500
and requires a deep soaking every month or so. Heavy leaf litter in spring necessitates a lot of ppm)
tidying up from lawns and paving, although it can be left as mulch on the soil. This tree is rarely Hardiness : -6°C

seen in Arriyadh, although it has potential for planting in protected situations. SHAPE
Type : tree
Height : 13 m-50 m
Spread : 7 m-20 m
Foliage : evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : deep yellow,
deep orange
Size : 7 cm - 10 cm
Period : March - May

FRUIT
Type of fruit : drupe (leathery/
fibrous)
Fruit size : 3 cm

158
 Haloxylon persicum, Chenopodiaceae

Saxaul, ghadha

GENERAL
This tall, spineless shrub, known as ghadha in Arabic, is a native plant in Saudi Arabia with a ran-
Origin : sub-tropical, ge covering saline deserts in the northern part of the Kingdom. An evergreen bush with slender
tropical branches, it reaches a height of 2 metres and the insignificant, yellow flowers reduced to anthers
Vigour : slow-growing,
normal growth appear in summer. The plant is tap-rooted and prefers light sandy and loamy, well-drained soils;
Humidity :
rate
very arid, semi-
it will also grow in nutritionally poor soil under very alkaline and saline conditions. It requires
arid, semi-humid full sun and can tolerate drought. Propagation is by seed; it is occasionally infested by insects.
Propagation : sowing and
pricking out
H. persicum, together with Calligonum comosum, are two important indigenous shrubs in the
Maintenance : low desert, supplying firewood and fodder for local populations. They are also extremely important
in sand dune fixation and environmental improvement, but their numbers have begun to dis-
CONDITIONS
Urban climate : resistant
appear with over-exploitation and destruction of their natural habitats. In addition, extremes
Dessication : resistant of climate, overgrazing by livestock and browsing retard the shrub’s growth rate. Furthermore,
Stagnant water : vulnerable natural regeneration is impeded, when the seeds of the plants become deeply buried in sand, im-
Irrigation
Salinity/ppm
:
:
none
high (5000 ppm)
peding germination. H. persicum is a useful plant which should be planted more often, owing to
Hardiness : -6°C
its usefulness in dune stabilisation, afforestation schemes and windbreaks. Slow-growing, it has
minimal irrigation and maintenance requirements.
SHAPE
Type : shrub
Height : 2 m-4 m
Spread : 2 m-3 m
Foliage : evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : yellow
Size : 1.2 cm
Period : August -
September

FRUIT
Type of fruit : capsule
Fruit size : 0.2 cm

159
 Heliotropium crispum, Boraginaceae

Heliotrope, rumram

This woody shrub, called rumram in Arabic, is common on sand and limestone in the Arriyadh GENERAL
region, and is well known for its medicinal properties for healing mouth and skin infections and Origin : Mediterranean,
curing snake bites. Widespread, it is found in sandy wadis, rocky terrain and on poor pasture sub-tropical
Vigour : normal growth
ground. A perennial up to 50 cm high with many white, bristly stems from a woody base, the rate
small, linear leaves are grey-green. The flowers are white with a yellow centre growing in a zigzag Humidity : extremely arid,
very arid, semi-
fashion down one side of the stem. Deep-rooting, it is very tolerant of saline conditions. The plant arid

is extremely tolerant of drought, wind and hot sun. It attracts many insects and is the food plant Propagation : direct sowing,
sowing and
for moth caterpillars. Propagation is by seed. H. crispum is a useful plant for landscape purposes pricking out

as a low ground cover. It must be noted, however, that some maintenance is necessary, since the Maintenance : low

plant becomes untidy over time: watering in summer will improve its foliage and appearance. CONDITIONS
Urban climate : vulnerable
Dessication : resistant
Stagnant water : resistant
Irrigation : low
Salinity/ppm : high (5000 ppm)
Hardiness : -6°C

SHAPE
Type : perennial,
sub-shrub
Height : 0.5 m
Spread : 0.8 m
Foliage : evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : white
Size : 0.3 cm
Period : March - April

FRUIT
Type of fruit : nutlet
Fruit size : 0.2 cm

160
 Hibiscus rosa-sinensis, Malvaceae

Chinese Hibiscus

GENERAL
Since it is no longer found in the wild, the origin of this plant is uncertain, although sinensis indi-
Origin : sub-tropical, cates a Chinese background. This was once a very common shrub in Arriyadh, but its susceptibi-
tropical
lity to frost, disease and insects seems to have made it rare. Various cultivars exist, with single or
Vigour : fairly fast
growing double flowers in shades of white, yellow, pink, orange and red. It is very easy to multiply Chinese
Humidity : semi-humid, very
humid
Hibiscus by hardwood cuttings of 20 cm in length when the leaves are reduced to a third and the
Propagation : cuttings sticks are covered to retain humidity. Brief periods of frost may damage the twigs, but the bushes
Maintenance : high quickly recover and also flower within the same year. Annual cutting back, exhaust fumes and
CONDITIONS
considerable dryness are tolerated, but they may result in slow growth and a reduction of flowe-
Urban climate : resistant
ring. Even some salinity is tolerated, but the leaves show chlorosis and may even be dropped. This
Dessication : vulnerable species is usually evergreen and produces dark-green, shiny foliage. In its native habitat, Chinese
Stagnant water : vulnerable Hibiscus flowers all year round. Elsewhere, flowers are produced when temperatures exceed 18°C.
Irrigation : high
Salinity/ppm : low (600 ppm)
Above 25°C, the flowering is reduced, so that Chinese Hibiscus in Arriyadh flowers in spring and
Hardiness : -3°C in autumn, but rarely in summer. In dry areas, the plants appreciate an occasional spray with the
garden hose. Fertiliser should be applied frequently to encourage a prolonged period of blossom.
SHAPE
Type : shrub
When the leaves turn yellow between the veins, iron chelate is the appropriate remedy. Usually
Height : 2 m-5 m this chlorosis appears where the ground is alkaline and lacks humus.
Spread : 2 m-4 m
Foliage : evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : red
Size : 9 cm
Period :

FRUIT
Type of fruit : schizocarp
Fruit size : 3 cm
Toxicity : inedible

161
 Hibiscus tiliaceus, Malvaceae

Seacoast Mallow

The Seacoast Mallow is found growing wild in subtropical, coastal regions of southern Asia. It is GENERAL
an ornamental tree attaining up to 10 metres in height and width and, owing to its provenance Origin : sub-tropical
along watercourses, it tolerates stagnant water better than other trees. High salinity and even Vigour : normal growth
rate, fairly fast
brackish water are tolerated. It grows fast in a variety of soils and tolerates some drought, but growing, fast
does not appreciate low atmospheric humidity combined with prolonged dryness. Leaves are Humidity :
growing
semi-humid, very
heart-shaped, evergreen and make a dense crown. Bright-yellow petals form a cup some 15 cm humid, extremely
humid
across with a long carpel protruding from a crimson centre. After just one or two days, they are Propagation : sowing and
shed, so that trees are not ideal canopies for pedestrian precincts. Often, they turn orange or pricking out,
cuttings
red before they are dropped. Apart from this bad habit, there are no further disadvantages, so Maintenance : moderate
that this species is often seen as an appealing street tree. Seeds should be stratified and soaked
in warm water prior to sowing, and hardwood cuttings also grow readily to imitate the traits of CONDITIONS
Dessication : vulnerable
the parent plant. The latter will also flower sooner than plants grown from seeds. The Seacoast Stagnant water : resistant
Mallow is a vigorous plant that does well in containers. It withstands pruning and may be kept as Irrigation : medium, high
a small standard or used as a hedge for screening. For flowering, it requires plenty of light, and Salinity/ppm : very high (10000
ppm)
frequent irrigation with occasional fertilisation is recommended. Light frosts may damage the Hardiness : +3°C
leaves, but plants recover quickly. There is often confusion in Arriyadh between this plant and
Thespesia populnea. SHAPE
Type : tree
Height : 10 m
Spread : 10 m
Foliage : evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : bright yellow,
centre: deep
purple, when
old: red
Size : 15 cm
Period : March -
November

FRUIT
Type of fruit : capsule
Fruit size : 2.5 cm

162
 Ipomoea batatas, Convolvulaceae

Sweet Potato

GENERAL
This vine produces edible tubers that can be oblong, round or even forked, and up to 25 cm long.
Origin : tropical
Their skin may be white, yellow, red, brown or purple. Varieties with white flesh are firmer, while
Vigour : fast growing those with shades of orange are more nutritious, containing the vitamins A and C. Originally
Humidity : semi-humid, very
humid, extremely
grown by Inca and Maya tribes in Central America, it was Columbus who began to distribute
humid the plant. Nowadays, it is a staple food found in many tropical countries. It is eaten boiled, baked,
Propagation : layer, cuttings,
division
fried, grilled or raw as a salad. Sweet Potatoes are also grown as pretty ornamentals for their
Maintenance : low attractive foliage, which is deeply lobed or heart-shaped. Cultivars show different colours such
as purple, and are sometimes variegated. Flowers appear in shades of purple, pink or white from
CONDITIONS
Urban climate : resistant
spring until autumn, but they are rather inconspicuous. Being of tropical descent, the plant revels
Dessication : vulnerable in heat and full sun if the soil is fertile, well drained and not too dry. Although it may be grown
Stagnant water : vulnerable from seed, it is usually propagated by softwood cuttings or tuber sections. Maintenance require-
Irrigation : medium
Salinity/ppm : low (1000 ppm)
ments are low, limited to training the shoots along the support. Pruning is possible at any time,
Hardiness : 0°C and infestations by pests or diseases are rare. Sweet Potatoes become dormant during prolonged
periods of cold, but remain evergreen in mild climates without frost. In Arriyadh, this plant is
SHAPE
Type : perennial
grown for its ornamental foliage, and large areas are often seen as a groundcover. It may also be
Height : 1.5 m planted in containers, hanging baskets or to hang over walls.
Spread : 3 m-5 m
Foliage : deciduous

FLOWER
Colour : deep pink, lilac,
purple, white
Size : 8 cm - 10 cm
Period : April - September

FRUIT
Type of fruit : capsule
Fruit size : 0.8 cm
Toxicity : edible when
processed, root

163
 Ipomoea cairica, Convolvulaceae

Cairo Morning Glory, Mile-a-Minute Vine

The Cairo Morning Glory grows creeping as a groundcover, trailing over edges or twining as a GENERAL
vine up to 5 metres high. This fast grower originates from tropical Africa and Asia, where it is Origin : tropical
sometimes called Mile a Minute Vine. Its stems are glabrous and tend to root when they touch Vigour : fast growing

soil. The evergreen, alternate leaves are pinnately lobed, round in shape and some 7 cm long. They Humidity : semi-humid, very
humid, extremely
form dense blankets spotted with many funnel-shaped flowers up to 9 cm across in purple, pink humid

or white during summer. The fruit is a brown capsule 1 cm across with hairy seeds separated in Propagation : direct sowing,
sowing and
valves. These are used for the most common way to propagate this plant and may also self-seed to pricking out,
cuttings
naturalise on disturbed ground, preferably a moist site. Full to partial sun suits it best; however, Maintenance : low
it thrives in shade but refuses to bloom properly. Fertile ground and occasional fertilising is wel-
come. If the soil drains well, the Cairo Morning Glory grows rapidly with frequent irrigation and CONDITIONS
Urban climate : resistant
does not object to sprinklers. It grows tubers, from which it readily recovers if frost has killed Dessication : vulnerable
the leaves and twigs. These tubers may be eaten cooked or roasted, but are not as tasty as those Stagnant water : vulnerable

of its relative Sweet Potato (Ipomoea batatas). The twigs were formerly used to make ropes. It Irrigation : medium
Salinity/ppm : high (5000 ppm)
withstands hard pruning best in early spring, but does not demand much attention if there are Hardiness : 0°C
no slow-growing plants nearby that might be overgrown. It is often seen in Arriyadh growing
rampant over walls and fences. SHAPE
Type : climbers
Height : 0.2 m-5 m
Spread : 3 m-5 m
Foliage : evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : deep pink, deep
purple, white
Size : 5 cm - 9 cm
Period : June - September

FRUIT
Type of fruit : capsule
Fruit size : 1 cm

164
 Ipomoea pes-caprae, Convolvulaceae

Beach Morning Glory

GENERAL
From the West Indies, the Beach Morning Glory began to spread, and is now found growing on
Origin : sub-tropical,
beaches and dunes in subtropical and tropical climates. It is well established in Arriyadh. It co-
tropical vers the soil sparsely with long stems that root at the nodes to fix itself on the ground. This trait is
Vigour : fast growing
Humidity : semi-arid, semi-
valued in controlling erosion. Roots may reach 3 metres deep and one plant can cover an area of
humid, very
humid
30 metres across while being less than 10 cm high. To resist heat and strong winds the evergreen
Propagation : sowing and
leaves are stiff, almost succulent, and they are lobed like the imprint of a goat’s hoof. Its species’
pricking out,
cuttings
name, pes-caprae, means foot of a goat. Cold winters may cause it to go dormant and shed its
Maintenance : low foliage. The funnel-shaped, lilac flowers are very attractive and are borne in late spring until
autumn. They measure about 5 cm in diameter and open in the morning, hence their vernacular
CONDITIONS
Urban climate : resistant
name Morning Glory. Another common name is Railroad Vine, referring to its very fast growth
Dessication : resistant
that occasionally needs to be controlled. Adverse conditions such as high salinity, torrid sun and
Stagnant water : vulnerable prolonged drought are tolerated by established plants. Frost will cause dieback and plants often
Irrigation : medium
have bare patches where damage has been caused. Although the plant can be grown from seed,
Salinity/ppm : high (4500 ppm)
Hardiness : 0°C
it is usually started from cuttings. Beach Morning Glories are ideal plants in low-maintenance
gardens with poor soil. Since they do not cover the soil densely, weeds may penetrate the area, so
SHAPE that mulching is required on fertile ground.
Type : perennial
Height : 0.1 m-0.2 m
Spread : 5 m-30 m
Foliage : evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : lilac, pink, purple
Size : 5 cm - 10 cm
Period : June - September

FRUIT
Type of fruit : capsule
Fruit size : 1.7 cm

165
 Iresine herbstii, Amaranthaceae

Bloodleaf, Beefsteak Plant

The Bloodleaf, picturesquely named after the colour of its leaves, is a surprisingly robust peren- GENERAL
nial herb, native to Brazil, and grows well in Arriyadh, where it is often seen as a groundcover Origin : sub-tropical,
in parks. This is an evergreen, herbaceous plant, growing to about 1 m tall and wide. It has oval, tropical
Humidity : semi-arid, semi-
sometimes almost circular, leaves, 2 to 6 cm long, pointed at the tip, with pronounced light red ve- humid, very
ins. Bloodleaf is planted for its varieties, which can have startling colours and markings, ranging Propagation :
humid
cuttings
from purple to bright reds, magenta and orange. There are also some green varieties. The small, Maintenance : low
woolly, mostly white flowers are usually inconspicuous. Good in bright sunlight, they are also
attractive in light shade. I. herbstii is damaged by temperatures below freezing, and a sheltered CONDITIONS
Urban climate : vulnerable
spot is beneficial. The spectacular show of foliage colour is shown throughout the season. Plants Dessication : vulnerable
prefer fertile soil, but will also grow in sandy soils with good drainage as long as they are not sali- Stagnant water : vulnerable

ne. They require regular and copious watering. Easily propagated by cuttings, which root quickly Irrigation : high
Salinity/ppm : low (700 ppm)
in water, plants can suffer from aphids. Bloodleaf is a highly ornamental plant, popular for its Hardiness : +3°C
colour and as a groundcover and border plant. It is also often seen as a pot plant. Maintenance
requirements are low, but weeding between plants and edge trimming may be necessary. SHAPE
Type : annual, perennial
Height : 0.6 m-1 m
Spread : 0.3 m-1 m
Foliage : evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : white
Size : 0.2 cm
Period : May - June

FRUIT
Type of fruit : capsule
Fruit size : 0.2 cm

166
 Ixora chinensis, Rubiaceae

Ixora, Flame of the Woods

GENERAL
This round shrub originates from the tropical and subtropical forests from Malaya to China. It
Origin : tropical grows moderately fast to about 1.5 metres in height. The shiny, dark-green foliage is attractive and
Vigour : slow-growing takes Arriyadh’s climate relatively well in a protected garden environment. The oval leaves may
Humidity : semi-humid, very
humid, extremely
reach 15 cm in length. The Flame of the Woods bears spherical cymes of 12 cm diameter, consi-
humid sting of scarlet florets. They seem to glow when the shrub is located beneath trees that cast light
Propagation : cuttings
Maintenance : moderate
shade. Types with red, orange and yellow flowers may also be found in cultivation. The peak of
floral display is in summer, but inflorescences appear all year round. Flowers are followed by hard
CONDITIONS berries. Some cultivars remain compact dwarf types, and are therefore ideal plants for containers.
Urban climate :
Dessication :
resistant
vulnerable
The plant tolerates some salinity and brief periods of drought, but performs best in nutritious,
Stagnant water : vulnerable
well-drained soil which is moist and acidic. Alkaline soil results in iron deficiency, as indicated
Irrigation : medium by yellow leaves. Fertilisers should be applied frequently, especially during the flowering period.
Salinity/ppm : moderate (2000
ppm)
It also responds well to compost and manure. Light requirements range from partial shade to
Hardiness : 0°C full sun. The shrub can be grown as a flowering hedge and takes pruning at any time of the year.
It looks best grouped in mixed borders with some shade in the afternoon. Adverse conditions
SHAPE
Type : shrub
ease infestations by scale insects and nematodes. It may be propagated in summer by softwood
Height : 0.7 m-1.5 m cuttings. The plants require initial protection against transpiration.
Spread : 0.7 m-1.5 m
Foliage : evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : bright orange
Size : 5 cm - 12 cm
Period : July - August

FRUIT
Type of fruit : berry
Fruit size : 1 cm

167
 Ixora coccinea, Rubiaceae

Jungle Flame

The Jungle Flame is an evergreen shrub native to India and Sri Lanka. Frost-sensitive in Arriyadh, GENERAL
it has become a popular garden shrub in recent years. Its shiny, leathery leaves measure 5 to 10 Origin : tropical
cm long and 3 to 5 cm across. Young foliage sprouts tinted in bronze. Bright red flowers appear in Vigour : normal growth
rate
clusters of 10 cm diameter and attract butterflies. At first, the outer flowers open while the inner Humidity : semi-humid, very
ones follow later on. Various cultivars are available with flower colours in pink, orange, yellow humid, extremely
humid
or white. Flowering begins in late spring, but flowers appear sporadically all year round. Other Propagation : cuttings
varieties grow compact and seem to be hybrids with the Flame of the Woods (Ixora chinensis). Maintenance : moderate

It is less suitable for desert climates than its Chinese cousin, but takes more shade. In its native
CONDITIONS
environment, this shrub reaches a height of 6 metres, but in Arriyadh it grows to only about half Urban climate : resistant
that size. Softwood cuttings root best at the end of summer, encouraged by some rooting hor- Dessication : vulnerable

mone. Initially, they should be pinched to achieve regular branching. If grown in pots, the Jungle Stagnant water : vulnerable
Irrigation : medium
Flame tends to shed flowers, especially if it is moved. It appreciates light, but does not tolerate Salinity/ppm : moderate (2000
full sun if this is associated with harsh conditions such as drought and wind. The soil should be ppm)

well drained, acidic and nutrient-rich with plenty of compost. Frequent deep irrigation is essential Hardiness : 0°C

to establish the plants. The plants look great if planted in groups or as a flowering hedge. Scale SHAPE
sometimes affects this shrub, but otherwise it tends to be disease-free. Type : shrub
Height : 1 m-6 m
Spread : 1 m-6 m
Foliage : evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : bright red
Size : 5 cm - 10 cm
Period : April - August

FRUIT
Type of fruit : berry
Fruit size : 1.5 cm

168
 Jacaranda mimosifolia, Bignoniaceae

Jacaranda, Mimosa-Leaved Ebony

GENERAL
Native to tropical South America, this deciduous tree is an eye-catcher in full flower with large
Origin : Mediterranean,
panicles of lilac or pale blue. These appear in spring before the foliage fully forms. Flowers may
sub-tropical,
tropical
appear again in autumn, but less obviously, because of the dense bipinnate leaves. They resemble
Vigour : fast growing those of some acacias – hence its species’ name mimosifolia – but may immediately be distingu-
Humidity : semi-humid, very
humid
ished for their opposite phyllotaxy. Jacaranda comes from the vernacular Brazilian name. They
Propagation : sowing and
grow fast to a height of about 10 metres and equivalent width in sunny positions when the soil
pricking out is fertile and frequently watered. The soil should contain compost and be fast-draining. Unfa-
Maintenance : moderate
vourable conditions such as compacted soil or continual drought will lead to dead branches. The
CONDITIONS shallow-growing roots must not be damaged. Jacaranda is not often seen in Arriyadh; it is not
Urban climate : resistant particularly well suited to the climate and its growth often comes to a standstill. In Arriyadh’s
Dessication
Stagnant water :
: vulnerable
vulnerable
coldest regions, the Jacaranda’s twigs may freeze, but trees soon recover just as if they had been
Irrigation : medium pruned. The tree can be cut back in late winter. Large, flat, red-brown fruits somehow resemble
Salinity/ppm : low (600 ppm) ravioli and reveal seeds that easily germinate if watered for 24 hours before sowing. Jacarandas
Hardiness : 0°C
may be grown in pots for their attractive fern-like leaves, but flowers will not appear on such
SHAPE
plants. Mature trees are flat-topped and their lacy foliage creates light summer shade. With sum-
Type : tree mer humidity, they make specimens for pedestrian areas. In Arriyadh, unfortunately, they are
Height : 10 m-20 m not very successful.
Spread : 8 m-10 m
Foliage : deciduous

FLOWER
Colour : light blue,
secondary: light
lilac
Size : 15 cm - 20 cm
Period : March - May

FRUIT
Type of fruit : capsule
Fruit size : 5 cm - 6 cm
Toxicity : inedible

169
 Jacquemontia pentantha, Convolvulaceae

Jacquemontia

This fast-growing, freely flowering climber is an easily maintained vine, originating in tropical GENERAL
America. It is now seen in Arriyadh’s gardens, where it has proven to be resilient to the strong sun, Origin : Mediterranean,
and makes a very attractive plant for covering fences and trellises. Its twining stems are relatively sub-tropical,
tropical
thin; the lush shiny, green leaves are small and heart-shaped with pointed tips. It bears smallish, Vigour : fast growing
brilliant blue flowers for most of the year, which are bell-shaped with a lighter coloured throat Humidity : semi-humid, very
humid
and produced in clusters at the ends of stalks. J. penthanta requires full sun or partial shade, and Propagation : layer, cuttings
prefers fertile, non-saline sandy soils that are well drained. Its somewhat fragile stems necessi- Maintenance : moderate

tate wind protection. This scrambling vine is not drought-tolerant or frost-tolerant, and needs
CONDITIONS
regular irrigation. Propagation is by cuttings or by layering. It is not prone to insect infestations. Urban climate : resistant
As a creeper with controllable growth and neat appearance, only occasional light trimming is Dessication : vulnerable
necessary. Heavier pruning will encourage new growth and produce flowers on new branches. It Stagnant water : vulnerable
Irrigation : medium
will grow well in a container and the beauty of its blossom is best admired on a shade structure Salinity/ppm : low (700 ppm)
or trellis. Hardiness : +3°C

SHAPE
Type : climbers
Height : 2m
Spread : 4m
Foliage : evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : blue
Size : 3 cm
Period : January -
December

FRUIT
Type of fruit : capsule
Fruit size : 0.5 cm

170
 Jasminum officinale, Oleaceae

Common White Jasmine, Poet’s Jasmine

GENERAL
The Poet’s Jasmine originates from southwest Asia. It received its name from the Persian word for
Origin : temperate,
‘gift from God’. In Arriyadh, it is slow to grow at first and rather frost-tender. Although it needs
sub-Mediterranean,
Mediterranean
support like wires or a fence, it may reach a height of up to 8 metres. The glossy, evergreen foliage
Humidity : semi-arid, semi- consists of five or seven oval leaflets and is arranged opposite along glabrous, green twigs. They
humid, very
humid
last in winter and withstand low temperatures better than those of other species. White, slender
Propagation : cuttings, layer buds open to produce funnel-shaped white flowers in summer. Their scent is marvellous and
Maintenance : moderate attracts attention immediately. Inflorescences have five corolla lobes. The soil should be nutrient-
CONDITIONS
rich and well-drained. Poet’s Jasmine grows well in containers. It should be watered freely in
Urban climate : vulnerable spring and summer, but sparsely in winter. They are heavy feeders and do best with general-
Dessication : vulnerable purpose fertilisers. Jasmines are of cultural importance as the symbolic flower of Damascus or
Stagnant water :
Irrigation :
vulnerable
high
as the national flower in Pakistan and the Philippines. Jasminum officinale ‘Flore Pleno’ grows
Salinity/ppm : low (600 ppm) double flowers, and there are varieties with yellow or variegated leaves which should not be expo-
Hardiness : -12°C sed to full sun. They are easily propagated by cuttings in September. Another simple method is
layering stems for one growing season and to separate them from the mother plant, well rooted
SHAPE
Type : climbers
and ready to flower within one year. Previously considered a cultivar, a large-flowered jasmine is
Height : 5 m-8 m now classified as an independent species: Jasminum grandiflorum.
Spread : 5 m-15 m
Foliage : semi-evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : white
Period : June - September
Smell : scented, strong,
flower, sweet,
heavy

FRUIT
Type of fruit : berry
Fruit size : 1 cm

171
 Jasminum polyanthum, Oleaceae

Pink Jasmine

In forests of subtropical China, the Pink Jasmine may be found growing wild as a vigorous clim- GENERAL
ber up to 6 metres high. The leaves are compound with five or seven leaflets from which the ter- Origin : sub-Mediterranean,
minal one is the largest. They usually last during winter, but may shed in cold winters without any Mediterranean
Vigour : fairly fast
damage to the twining stems as long as freezing is mild and brief. A large number of pink buds growing
are borne in late winter to turn into white, star-shaped flowers 2 cm across. A pleasant, sweet Humidity : semi-arid, semi-
humid, very
scent is emitted during flowering in spring. Flowers also appear less profusely in summer and au- humid

tumn. The plant is a source of aromatic oil that may be extracted to produce perfume. Pollination Propagation : sowing and
pricking out,
results in dark-blue berries. Established plants take full sun and tolerate some drought. However, layer, cuttings

flowers are also produced in abundance where plants thrive in the partial shade of palm groves. Maintenance : moderate

They do well in pots indoors or in containers with excellent drainage. A lush appearance is achie- CONDITIONS
ved in fertile soil either acidic or alkaline with supplemental irrigation in summer. Pruning in Urban climate : resistant

winter does not affect the flowers, since they grow in terminal clusters on new growth. Pink Jas- Dessication : vulnerable
Stagnant water : vulnerable
mines require support such as a fence or, if grown in front of a wall, some sort of trellis is needed. Irrigation : high
Semi-hardwood cuttings in late summer root easily and plants already flower when young. Other Salinity/ppm : low (600 ppm)
methods are layering and sowing seeds that have been cleaned and dried first. The plant is so easy Hardiness : -6°C

to grow that it has become invasive in some regions with favourable climate. SHAPE
Type : climbers
Height : 3 m-6 m
Spread : 4 m-7 m
Foliage : evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : white, pink
Size : 2 cm
Period : February - August
Smell : aroma, strong,
gives freely of
its scent, flower,
sweet

FRUIT
Type of fruit : berry
Fruit size : 1.1 cm

172
 Jasminum sambac, Oleaceae

Arabian Jasmine

GENERAL
Centuries ago, merchants brought the Arabian Jasmine from its native habitat in southern Asia
Origin : Mediterranean,
along trading routes westwards. This is a popular shrub in Arriyadh, which somehow never looks
sub-tropical its best. The evergreen leaves are leathery, glossy and grouped in twos or threes along the twining
Vigour : slow-growing
Humidity : semi-arid, semi-
stems. They differ from those of other species by being entire. In summer, clusters of white, tu-
humid, very
humid
bular flowers are borne to emit the outstanding fragrance that jasmines are known for. In other
Propagation : sowing and
seasons, flowering is sporadic. Full or partial sun is required to produce abundant inflorescences.
pricking out,
cuttings
A fertile, well-drained soil allows vital growth so that this climber will stand some drought when
Maintenance : moderate established. However, it appreciates frequent irrigation and generally remains free from pests
and diseases. General purpose fertilisers should be applied in two split doses during spring to
CONDITIONS
Urban climate : resistant
support new growth first and development of flower buds later on. Transplanting is best done
Dessication : vulnerable
in autumn. Low temperatures are no problem, but Arabian Jasmines should not be exposed to
Stagnant water : vulnerable prolonged frosts. They need to be trained along a support such as a trellis or a pergola reaching
Irrigation : medium about 3 metres in height. Plants will also grow in containers and tolerate pruning at any time to
Salinity/ppm : low (600 ppm)
Hardiness : -3°C
form a shrub, for instance, but not a climber. It may also blanket the ground with its attractive
dark-green foliage. Cuttings and sowing are handy methods of propagation. In China, the dried
SHAPE flowers are used to make the famous jasmine tea and they may also be processed to yield perfume.
Type : shrub
Height : 2 m-3 m
Spread : 2 m-3 m
Foliage : evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : white
Size : 2 cm - 3 cm
Period : March - October
Smell : aroma, strong,
gives freely of
its scent, flower,
sweet

FRUIT
Type of fruit : berry
Fruit size : 1 cm
Toxicity : edible when
processed

173
 Jatropha integerrima, Euphorbiaceae

Peregrina

Native to Cuba, this tall, dense, rounded evergreen shrub, commonly known as Peregrina, grows GENERAL
up to 3 metres high with an equal spread, and when mature will be almost like a tree with several Origin : sub-tropical,
slender trunks. It has been quite successful in Arriyadh in recent years, in both parks and gar- tropical
Vigour : slow-growing
dens, as well as in urban situations. The glossy, oval leaves are about 10 cm long, medium-green Humidity : semi-arid, semi-
and velvety on the upper surface. Bright scarlet, five-petalled, star-shaped flowers with yellow humid, very
humid
stamens bloom in clusters in summer. J. integerrima does best in full sun in frost-free locations, Propagation : cuttings
but will tolerate partial shade. In very cold winters in Arriyadh, it may become semi-deciduous, Maintenance : moderate

but the main stems are hardy. It requires regular irrigation, especially in late spring and summer,
CONDITIONS
but can be classed as a drought-tolerant plant, once established. Tolerant of a wide variety of poor Urban climate : resistant
and dry soils, as long as these are well draining, the shrub is not tolerant of salinity. It flowers on Dessication : vulnerable
the current year’s growth, so it can be pruned at any time of the year. All parts of the plant con- Stagnant water : vulnerable
Irrigation : medium
tain toxic substances. Propagation is from cuttings taken in spring. A slow-release fertiliser, ap- Salinity/ppm : low (700 ppm)
plied two to four times a year, will improve the plant’s appearance. J. integerrima is a spectacular Hardiness : 0°C
shrub in flower and can be used as an accent or in a shrub border. It is also a fine container plant
SHAPE
for patios. Suitable for planting in buffer strips such as road medians and in urban landscapes Type : shrub
squares, some protection is necessary against hot desiccating winds. Height : 1 m-3 m
Spread : 1 m-3 m
Foliage : evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : deep pink, deep
red
Size : 3 cm
Period : July - September

FRUIT
Type of fruit : capsule
Fruit size : 1 cm - 2 cm
Toxicity : poisonous, fruit

174
 Juncus rigidus, Juncaceae

Sea Rush, sammar, nammas

GENERAL
This is a dense, perennial rush, known in Arabic as sammar or nammas, which grows in tufts
Origin : sub-tropical,
on saline ground in many parts of the Kingdom. These rushes are distributed throughout many
tropical parts of Europe, Africa and the Middle East. Their habitats are salt marshes, poorly drained soils
Humidity : semi-humid, very
humid, extremely around water runoffs and permanently wet depressions, as well as the margins of watercourses
Propagation :
humid
division, sowing
and drainage channels. They grow to a height of 1 metre with a creeping rhizome and numerous
and pricking out rigid, slender and pungent stems. The pale-green leaves are sharply pointed, and mostly parallel.
Maintenance : low Panicles of numerous, small, beige flowers up to 20 cm long appear almost throughout the year.
CONDITIONS
The capsules contain many seeds, which have whitish tails. J. rigidus prefers moist, silty soils and
Urban climate : resistant has a very high salt tolerance. Propagation is by seed and division. It is used as a material for
Dessication : vulnerable making mats and is only occasionally grazed, if ever. This rush can be used for landscape purpo-
Stagnant water :
Irrigation :
resistant
high
ses in extensive schemes, where the banks of lakes or watercourses need stabilisation. It is a very
Salinity/ppm : very high (20000 hardy plant, requiring little maintenance, although care should be taken that it does not become
ppm)
invasive. It is at its best near running water, but dead leaves should be removed when it is used in
Hardiness : -3°C
a garden around a pond.
SHAPE
Type : perennial
Height : 1m
Spread : 0.8 m
Foliage : evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : light brown
Size : 20 cm
Period : January -
December

FRUIT
Type of fruit : capsule
Fruit size : 0.5 cm

175
 Kalanchoe blossfeldiana, Crassulaceae

Flaming Katy

While most succulents are grown for their remarkable foliage, thickened stems or spectacular GENERAL
thorns, this succulent attracts attention with its brightly coloured flowers. Native to Madagas- Origin : sub-tropical,
car, Flaming Katies grow a compact, round shape to about 40 cm high. Their fleshy, deep-green tropical
Humidity : semi-arid, semi-
leaves are round or oval with scalloped edges. Clusters of small tubular flowers show up in the humid
colours white, yellow, orange, red, pink or purple. They appear in winter for weeks. The Flaming Propagation : cuttings

Katy may grow as a tough indoor plant or as a highly ornamental bedding plant. The soil should Maintenance : low

be well drained. The most frequent problems for pot-grown Kalanchoes are overwatering and CONDITIONS
applying cold water that shocks the roots. During dry periods with insufficient watering, the Urban climate : resistant

leaves begin to turn yellow and shrivel up before they are dropped. This starts from the bottom Dessication : resistant
Stagnant water : vulnerable
progressing upwards, until the branches bear remnants of foliage that will not become attractive Irrigation : low
again. Cutting back may result in rejuvenating growth, but it is more appropriate to replace the Salinity/ppm : moderate (2000
ppm)
entire planting. After flowering, the flower stalks should be cut off to give a neat appearance and Hardiness : 0°C
to induce the production of new buds. A disadvantage is the brittle leaves and branches. They are
easily damaged, which means that the Flaming Katy should be located carefully. In Arriyadh’s SHAPE

climate, it does best if not exposed to full sun, especially in the afternoon. It should be used to Type
Height
:
:
cacti, succulents
0.15 m-0.4 m
bring its splendid colours into shady areas. It is very easy to multiply Flaming Katy by cuttings Spread : 0.4 m-0.6 m
in spring or autumn. Foliage : evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : red, pink, white,
orange, purple,
yellow
Period : March -
December

FRUIT
Type of fruit : capsule
Fruit size : 0.5 cm
Toxicity : inedible

176
 Kalanchoe daigremontiana, Crassulaceae

Devil’s Backbone, Maternity Plant

GENERAL
The Devil’s Backbone originates from southwest Madagascar, where the climate is quite similar
Origin : Mediterranean,
to the dry, hot and rocky conditions in Arriyadh. It makes a gnarled round bush of about 1
sub-tropical metres in height. This succulent grows green stems sparsely aligned with opposite, fleshy leaves
Humidity : extremely arid,
very arid, semi- that produce tiny plantlets along the edges. These pseudo-bulbils appear in summer and root
Propagation :
arid, semi-humid
cuttings
even before touching the ground. This may result in an abundant number of new plants and so
Maintenance : low
this Kalanchoe has earned the other common name Maternity Plant. The foliage is pale-green
freckled in red, and may bend upwards in dry conditions. Older plants show clusters of bright
CONDITIONS orange, tubular flowers at the beginning of summer. In autumn, the floral stems should be cut
Urban climate : resistant
Dessication : resistant
back and vigorous growth is achieved after pruning the plant back to the ground. The soil must
Stagnant water : vulnerable be sandy to ensure excellent drainage. Established plants tolerate full sun and heat, but should
Irrigation : low be watered frequently. Partially sunny locations are also eligible, especially with some shade in
Salinity/ppm : moderate (2000
ppm) the afternoon. While the Devil’s Backbone is resilient to most desert conditions, it will be killed
Hardiness : 0°C by frost and overwatering. It makes an ideal specimen in rock gardens and can be grown in pots
as a house plant or in containers to embellish a terrace or courtyard. They should be pinched
SHAPE
Type : cacti, succulents
occasionally to obtain lateral branching and a more compact growth. Maintenance requirements
Height : 0.5 m-1.2 m are low in appropriate locations. A serious hazard is the plant’s toxicity if ingested by livestock.
Spread : 0.3 m-1 m
Foliage : evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : bright orange,
pastel lilac
Size : 2 cm
Period : May - June

FRUIT
Type of fruit : capsule
Fruit size : 1 cm
Toxicity : inedible

177
 Lagerstroemia indica, Lythraceae

Crape Myrtle

Native to China, the Crape Myrtle is a beautiful, tall shrub or small tree growing up to 5 metres GENERAL
high and wide, which makes a lovely accent in a garden. It is not very common in Arriyadh, be- Origin : Mediterranean,
cause not all of its growing conditions can be fulfilled. However, some choice specimens can be sub-tropical
Vigour : fast growing
seen in Olaya. Looking best with multiple trunks, L. indica has dark-green, oval leaves up to 5 cm Humidity : semi-arid, semi-
long (light green with a copper tone in spring, turning brilliant orange or red in autumn) and clu- humid, very
humid
sters of delicate, crinkly petalled flowers. There are many cultivars with a wide range of colours Propagation : sowing and
from brilliant red to pink, purple, lavender and white. One of its most attractive attributes is the pricking out,
cuttings
attractive, smooth grey-brown trunk and branch structure, appearing to be polished in winter, Maintenance : low
the bark of which peels off to reveal a pinkish inner bark. The tree requires sun and heat to flower
CONDITIONS
well, with some wind protection, and although quite drought-resistant, regular irrigation and Urban climate : resistant
deep watering in summer are appreciated. The Crape Myrtle prefers well-drained, fertile, sandy Dessication : vulnerable
soils. It will tolerate frost in Arriyadh. Propagation is usually by seed. A slow-release fertiliser, Stagnant water : vulnerable

rich in nitrogen and potassium, can be applied twice or three times per year. Prone also to leaf Irrigation : medium
Salinity/ppm : low (700 ppm)
burn and chlorosis, owing to irrigation with saline and alkaline water, the soil must be leached Hardiness : -12°C
and treated with iron. Requiring only low maintenance and light pruning to encourage flowering,
this tree is excellent on patios, in containers, and close to doorways. SHAPE
Type : tree, shrub
Height : 5 m-10 m
Spread : 3 m-6 m
Foliage : deciduous

FLOWER
Colour : pink
Size : 4 cm - 20 cm
Period : July - September

FRUIT
Type of fruit : capsule
Fruit size : 1.3 cm

178
 Lagunaria patersonii, Malvaceae

Cow-Itch Tree, Norfolk Island Hibiscus, Primrose Tree, Pyramid Tree

GENERAL
Cow Itch Trees occur wild in northern Australia, in the coastal regions of Queensland, New
Origin : Mediterranean,
South Wales and several islands. Hence, they tolerate very high salinity and wind as well as full
sub-tropical sun, heat and drought. An established tree in Wadi Hanifah was neglected for years and did well
Vigour : fairly fast
growing without additional watering, even though it grew at the valley’s edge. Light frosts of up to –5°C
Humidity : semi-arid, semi-
humid, very
are tolerated except by young plants. They grow to a medium size of oval shape and about 10
humid, extremely metres in height, but may reach 15 metres under conditions similar to their native environment.
humid
Propagation : sowing and
The leathery foliage is evergreen, entire and may reach 10 cm length. From late spring onwards,
pricking out, there are many pink or mauve flowers about 5 to 7 cm across. These are reminiscent of hibiscus
cuttings
Maintenance : low
flowers, since both belong to the mallow family (Malvaceae). The inflorescences are followed by
valved capsules including many round seeds, but also tiny stiff hairs that may irritate the skin. It
CONDITIONS is therefore not a good choice in pedestrian areas, but Cow Itch Trees are excellent roadside trees
Dessication : vulnerable
Stagnant water : vulnerable
that form symmetrical pyramidal crowns without pruning. They are maintenance-free and will
Irrigation : medium tolerate any well-drained soil. In containers, they can grow into a shrub to some 3 metres high
Salinity/ppm : moderate (3000
ppm)
and may form a screen or windbreak. They are multiplied by seeds or cuttings in spring. Laguna-
Hardiness : -6°C
rias are rarely infested by pests or diseases.
SHAPE
Type : tree
Height : 6 m-15 m
Spread : 4 m-9 m
Foliage : evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : pink, red, white
Size : 5 cm - 7 cm
Period : May - July

FRUIT
Type of fruit : schizocarp
Fruit size : 3 cm

179
 Lampranthus aureus, Aizoaceae

Gold Ice Plant, Orange Ice Plant

This sturdy plant originates from the Western Cape region, South Africa. Gold Ice Plants are GENERAL
small shrubs with succulent leaves arranged in pairs. In ideal conditions, they can grow up to 50 Origin : Mediterranean,
cm high, but they usually form low mats of some 15 cm. The foliage is dark green, but turns pale sub-tropical
Vigour : fast growing
bluish-green in drought and may reach 5 cm in length. During its flowering period, the entire Humidity : very arid, semi-
plant is covered with bright-orange, daisy-like flowers borne in stalked clusters or single, each arid, semi-humid,
very humid
measuring some 5 cm across. They close at night and will not open unless bright sunlight induces Propagation : sowing and
them to do so. Accordingly, they are also known as Midday Plants or Municipal Workers, because pricking out,
cuttings
the inflorescences open at 9 in the morning and close at 5 in the afternoon. Flowers appear from Maintenance : low
late spring until early autumn, after pollination by insects, they are followed by capsules. An
adaptation to desert conditions is a mechanism that seeds are not released from the capsules be- CONDITIONS
Urban climate : resistant
fore it rains, even if this takes several months. Seeds are produced in abundance and are an easy Dessication : resistant
method for multiplying the plants. Another method of propagation is to take cuttings in autumn. Stagnant water : vulnerable

The plant grows well in sand or loam, but does not tolerate waterlogging. By virtue of the leaves’ Irrigation : low
Salinity/ppm : high (3500 ppm)
capacity to store water, established plants do well with little supplemental irrigation. Watering Hardiness : -3°C
may be done with medium levels of salt. Gold Ice Plants are suitable for large groundcover areas
and containers. In Arriyadh, they withstand the harsh conditions of hot sun and winter cold very SHAPE
Type : cacti, succulents
well. Height : 0.15 m-0.5 m
Spread : 0.4 m-0.6 m
Foliage : evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : bright orange
Size : 5 cm - 6 cm
Period : May - August

FRUIT
Type of fruit : capsule
Fruit size : 0.5 cm
Toxicity : inedible

180
 Lampranthus glaucus, Aizoaceae

Noon Flower, Yellow Vygie

GENERAL
The Yellow Vygie is one of more than 220 species of this genus, which makes it the largest group
Origin : Mediterranean,
within the ice plant family (Aizoaceae). Glaucus is the Greek word for blue, and refers to the co-
sub-tropical lour of the three-angled leaves that protect this perennial from glaring sun. The plant grows fairly
Vigour : fairly fast
growing quickly to build a dense cushion up to 60 cm in height, but usually much lower, forming mats
Humidity : semi-arid, semi-
humid, very
of some 20 cm. Large, sulphur-yellow flowers cover the plant in spring. If pollinated by insects,
humid the flowers develop into woody capsules that contain numerous seeds. It grows in full sun to
Propagation : cuttings partial shade, tolerates heat but also survives frosts up to –10°C. Tolerating a considerable period
Maintenance : low
of drought makes the Yellow Vygie interesting for xeriscape (water-wise) uses. Frequent watering
CONDITIONS is appreciated, but the plant may quickly be overwatered in heavy soils. Propagation is simple by
Urban climate : resistant cuttings, but the surface must callous before planting. The plants also grow well from seeds. Cap-
Dessication
Stagnant water :
: resistant
vulnerable
sules swell up after sufficient rain only to release seeds when there is a sufficient amount of water
Irrigation : low to ensure successful germination. This robust plant gives a showy display without much effort.
Salinity/ppm : high (4000 ppm) It is an ideal groundcover or group plant for low-maintenance gardens, parks and in containers.
Hardiness : -9°C
Infestations are rare, but weak plants may be attacked by scale, which requires treatment with a
SHAPE
systemic pesticide. Some compost is welcome, although the plants are used to poor and alkaline
Type : cacti, succulents soil conditions.
Height : 0.2 m-0.6 m
Spread : 0.3 m-0.9 m
Foliage : evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : yellow
Size : 4 cm
Period : April - May

FRUIT
Type of fruit : capsule
Fruit size : 0.8 cm

181
 Lantana camara, Verbenaceae

Lantana, Shrub Verbena

Lantana is indigenous to Mexico and Central America. It is a medium-sized, evergreen shrub GENERAL
reaching a height of 150 cm. The thin branches and dark-green, oval leaves are roughly haired. Origin : Mediterranean,
The inflorescence is composed of numerous, little flowers on many heads, which vary in colour sub-tropical,
tropical
from pink and yellow to red and orange. The leaves and flowers, which bloom throughout the Vigour : normal growth
year, have a strong fragrance. After flowering, green berries appear, which ripen to black. The Humidity :
rate
semi-arid, semi-
entire plant is poisonous, especially the fruits. Lantanas can withstand very high temperatures humid, very
humid, extremely
and sun, but grow better with humidity. It is moderately tolerant of salinity and will grow on any humid
soil type. Different cultivars are available such as L. c. ‘Fabiola’, flowering yellow-red-pink, L. c. Propagation : sowing and
pricking out,
‘Nana’ flowers in yellow-orange-red on the same head and L. c. ‘Radiation’ flowers orange-red. L. cuttings
camara is the garden relative of Lantana horrida, which is much more drought-tolerant, but even Maintenance : low

less frost-tolerant. Lantanas are best propagated by cuttings. They are versatile shrubs for arid re- CONDITIONS
gions forming natural screens, clipped hedges or splashes of colour. It is a popular shrub in urban Urban climate : resistant
areas, public open spaces and park planting. It is useful as low underplanting and in extensive Dessication : vulnerable

landscapes; it will almost become naturalised. It is now quite wild in certain areas of the Diplo- Stagnant water :
Irrigation :
vulnerable
medium
matic Quarter. Relatively low maintenance is required, and a dense, attractive shape is achieved Salinity/ppm : moderate (3000
by regular pruning. Occasional deep watering and feeding will also improve its appearance. ppm)
Hardiness : 0°C

SHAPE
Type : shrub
Height : 1 m-1.8 m
Spread : 1.5 m-2 m
Foliage : evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : orange, red,
yellow, pink
Size : 4 cm - 6 cm
Period : May - October
Smell : malodorous

FRUIT
Type of fruit : berry
Fruit size : 0.5 cm
Toxicity : poisonous

182
 Lantana montevidensis, Verbenaceae

Trailing Lantana

GENERAL
The Trailing Lantana is native to tropical South America, Uruguay and Brazil, and is a vigorous,
Origin : Mediterranean,
spreading sub-shrub or shrub growing only 30 cm high, but spreading up to 2 metres. It has
sub-tropical,
tropical
been quite successful in Arriyadh. Semi-evergreen foliage is dark green and the profuse flowers
Vigour : fairly fast on many heads are a bright violet-blue, covering the plant almost completely throughout the year
Humidity :
growing
semi-arid, semi-
and giving a bold splash of colour, especially in winter. This Lantana likes light, well-drained
humid, very soil with regular irrigation and has medium tolerance to salinity. It develops well in sunny loca-
humid, extremely
humid tions, but partial shade is also possible. Slightly sensitive to frost, it will recover again in spring.
Propagation : cuttings, sowing Lantana montevidensis can be propagated by seeds and with cuttings. Like other Lantanas, the
and pricking out
Maintenance : high
plant is poisonous to livestock. Trailing Lantana is impressive as a ground cover and in steppe
or rock gardens. It can be used for the tops of walls, because it will cascade down the wall and
CONDITIONS cover it with its flowers. Urban areas, public open space, park plantings and pedestrian precincts
Urban climate : resistant
Dessication : vulnerable
are preferred areas for using this Lantana as ground cover. Containers can be planted with it too.
Stagnant water : vulnerable Relatively high maintenance is necessary; the plants have the disadvantage of dying back at their
Irrigation : high centre, so that mass planting has to be renewed every so often. Trimming of the tops once a year
Salinity/ppm : moderate (2500
ppm)
will encourage dense growth and rich flowering. Plants should be fertilised up to twice a year and
Hardiness : 0°C may need to be sprayed against whiteflies.
SHAPE
Type : sub-shrub, shrub
Height : 0.2 m-0.3 m
Spread : 1.2 m-2 m
Foliage : semi-evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : lilac, light blue,
violet
Size : 2 cm - 3 cm
Period : June - September
Smell : malodorous

FRUIT
Type of fruit : berry
Fruit size : 0.4 cm
Toxicity : poisonous

183
 Lasiurus scindicus, Poaceae

Sewan Grass, daah

Lasiurus, or Sewan Grass (daah in Arabic), is a perennial, bushy desert grass that grows between GENERAL
30 and 60 cm high. In good conditions, it reaches a height of 90 to 100 cm. It is distributed in the Origin : sub-tropical
Arabian peninsula, and is indigenous to the Arriyadh region as well as in North Africa, India Humidity : very arid, semi-
arid
and Pakistan. The linear leaves are silver-green-yellow, and the flowers appear in early summer Propagation : sowing and
in 10–14-cm long and 1-cm-broad silver-silky spikes. This grass has deep roots and prefers a pricking out
Maintenance : low
non-alkaline sandy soil. Propagation is done by sowing and pricking out. L. hirsutus is highly
drought-tolerant, and withstands hot winds. Fertilisation is not necessary. All of these attributes CONDITIONS
make it a very useful plant for landscape design in and around Arriyadh. With its attractive spiky Urban climate : resistant

flowers and its compact growth, pleasing compositions can be created. L. hirsutus can be planted Dessication
Stagnant water :
: resistant
vulnerable
in open country as a coloniser, slope stabiliser for hillside plantation or for environmental impro- Irrigation : low, none
vement. Even for cultivated urban areas, however, it may be used in planting schemes for public Salinity/ppm : high (3500 ppm)

open spaces, parks, street planting, car parks, pedestrian precincts and containers, as well as in Hardiness : -6°C

private gardens. Native grasses should be planted more in landscape design, because they are very SHAPE
well adapted to desert conditions. In masses or planted in groups, the attractive effect of a wavy Type : perennial
sea is created when the wind blows through them. Height : 0.3 m-1 m
Spread : 0.4 m-1.2 m
Foliage : evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : white
Size : 14 cm
Period : March - June

FRUIT
Type of fruit : caryopsis
Fruit size : 0.3 cm

184
 Latania loddigesii, Arecaceae

Blue Latan Palm

GENERAL
The Blue Latan Palm is a striking fan palm adapted to the seasonally dry climate of its native
Origin : sub-tropical,
Mauritius, where it grows on cliffs and in canyons. This is a palm tree with potential for greater
tropical use in Arriyadh, where to date it has been seen only in private gardens. Slow-growing, L. loddi-
Vigour : normal growth
rate gesii reaches a height of 10 metres and has coarse-textured, spirally arranged leaf blades up to 2
Humidity : semi-humid, very
humid, extremely
metres in diameter, held erect on long petioles. A white down on the surface of the leaves lends
humid the tree a silvery appearance. The trunk has a thick, swollen base. Its cream-coloured flowers on
Propagation : sowing and
pricking out
stalks up to 1.8 metres long are not very showy, and the oval fruits up to 12 cm in size are green-
Maintenance : low brown. Blue Latan palms require full sun to partial shade. They prefer fertile soils but tolerate
clayey, sandy and loam soils, which are slightly alkaline and well drained; drought tolerance is
CONDITIONS
Urban climate : vulnerable
high, salt tolerance is moderate. This palm requires regular irrigation until established and deep
Dessication : vulnerable
watering in summer. Propagated by seed, it is sensitive to pests and diseases, and is particularly
Stagnant water : vulnerable susceptible to lethal yellowing disease. The pruning requirement is very low, but fruit and leaves
Irrigation : high may cause a litter problem. Three other species of Latan Palm can be told apart only by their leaf
Salinity/ppm : moderate (1500
ppm) colour. Latan Palm makes a very good specimen palm tree for attracting attention, and can be
Hardiness : -3°C planted on decks or patios in large gardens, as a specimen in a park or in containers.
SHAPE
Type : palms
Height : 8 m-10 m
Spread : 3 m-4.5 m
Foliage : evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : pale yellow
Size : 180 cm
Period : July - August

FRUIT
Type of fruit : drupe(fleshy/
juicy)
Fruit size : 12 cm

185
 Launaea nudicaulis, Asteraceae

Launaea, safara, hawa

Launaea nudicaulis, or in Arabic safara or hawa, is a perennial herb from the sub-tropical climate GENERAL
zone. It is native to the Arabian peninsula, Northern Africa and Turkey. The flower stalks are Origin : sub-tropical
greyish-green and arise from the rosette of green leaves growing flat to the ground. Leaves are Vigour : fast growing

lanceolate and the margins are dentate. The bright yellow flowers appear in spring and are 2 cm Humidity : very arid, semi-
arid
in diameter. The stalk with its flowers at the branch ends reaches a height of 50 cm. During the Propagation : sowing and
pricking out
summer, this perennial is dormant in the ground and comes back with the first rain. Launaea Maintenance : low, moderate
likes sandy and silty soil. The salt tolerance is medium. This plant can be found all around Arri-
yadh, especially in Thumamah, because it is not browsed by livestock there. Propagation can be CONDITIONS

done by seeds. Launaea is well adapted to desert conditions, but in desert-like planting themes Urban climate :
Dessication :
vulnerable
resistant
in landscape design it has the disadvantage that it will disappear in the summer drought. With Stagnant water : vulnerable
irrigation, flowering and growth can be improved and it will not become dormant. Because of Irrigation : low, none

its rich flowering, it can be used in near-natural gardens, such as rock or steppe gardens, as a Salinity/ppm : moderate (1800
ppm)
groundcover. Launaea attracts bees. In former times leaves were applied to reduce fever. Hardiness : -3°C

SHAPE
Type : perennial
Height : 0.5 m
Spread : 0.2 m
Foliage : deciduous

FLOWER
Colour : yellow
Size : 2 cm
Period : March - April

FRUIT
Type of fruit : achene
Fruit size : 0.5 cm

186
 Lavandula angustifolia, Lamiaceae

Common Lavender

GENERAL Lavandula angustifolia is the common Lavender, a sub-shrub with a strong scent. The herb is
Origin : sub-Mediterranean, indigenous to the Mediterranean, Alpine, Balkan and Caucasus. Lavender can also be found
Mediterranean
Vigour : slow-growing
near Taif in the Asir Mountains, but is observed in Thumamah Natural Park in ravines as well.
Humidity : semi-arid, semi- Maintained, it usually grows 40 cm high, but it can reach a height of 100 cm. Regularly pruning
humid
Propagation : sowing and
will keep the dwarf shrub densely branched, since otherwise it tends to become squarrose. In
pricking out, June to August, the typical strong-scented, blue or violet, ear-like flowers appear. The semi-ever-
cuttings
Maintenance : moderate
green leaves are lanceolate and silver-grey. The roots are shallow to deep, depending on the water
supply. Lavender grows naturally on rocky silty soils. Because of its semi-evergreen leaves, the
CONDITIONS herb likes sufficient air humidity. The saline content of irrigation water should be low. Lavender
Urban climate : resistant
Dessication : resistant
can be propagated by sowing and pricking and with cuttings. In southern Europe, lavender is
Stagnant water : vulnerable cultivated for the perfume industry. Lavender is used for medical reasons to cure inner agitati-
Irrigation : medium on or digestive problems. For landscape design, this appealing aromatic herb can be utilised as
Salinity/ppm
Hardiness
:
:
low (1000 ppm)
-25°C
grouped or massed planting, and as groundcover. It also fits in well in rock or steppe gardens, on
wall tops or as small hedges as border plantations. In Arriyadh, Lavender can be used in private
SHAPE gardens, urban areas, park planting and open public space. Lavender does also well in containers
Type : sub-shrub
and as topiary planting, and attracts bees.
Height : 0.4 m-1 m
Spread : 0.6 m-1.4 m
Foliage : semi-evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : blue, violet
Size : 10 cm - 15 cm
Period : June - August
Smell : scented, aroma,
strong, pleasantly
scented, gives
freely of its scent,
leaf, flower, spicy

FRUIT
Type of fruit : nutlet
Fruit size : 0.2 cm
Toxicity : edible when
processed

187
 Lavandula dentata, Lamiaceae

Toothed Lavender

Lavandula dentata is the Toothed Lavender, and has the English common name French Lavender. GENERAL
The herb is an evergreen sub-shrub with a strong scent. Toothed Lavender is native to the Medi- Origin : sub-Mediterranean,
terranean, northwest Africa, Balearic Islands and Portugal. Regular pruning is also required for Mediterranean
Vigour : slow-growing
the Toothed Lavender. The growth height varies between 30 and 100 cm. The lanceolate pastel- Humidity : semi-arid, semi-
grey-green leaves are dentate. The blue-violet, ear-like flowers are 2 to 5 cm across. The upper humid

petals have impressive appendages, which make this Lavender quite unique. This plant is popular Propagation : sowing and
pricking out,
because of its attractive foliage, flowers and refreshing scent. French Lavender prefers alkaline, cuttings
Maintenance : moderate
rocky, silty and well-drained soils. Propagation is the same as for Common Lavender. Like L. an-
gustifolia, and owing to its evergreen foliage, it requires humidity to grow well. A sunny location CONDITIONS
improves the flowering and scent, but in view of the extreme aridity of the Arriyadh region, and Urban climate : vulnerable

because it does not adapt well to desert conditions, it is best planted in the protected environment Dessication
Stagnant water :
: resistant
vulnerable
of a city garden. Irrigation should be medium with low salinity. The use for planting schemes is Irrigation : medium
comparable to that of the other variety. A a groundcover, grouped or massed plantation, in ed- Salinity/ppm : low (1000 ppm)

ging plantations as small hedge, in natural gardens with themes such as rock or steppe gardens, Hardiness : -6°C

it makes a good eye-catcher because of its ornamental shape. Sheltered planting in parks, public SHAPE
open spaces, containers and private gardens are suitable locations for the use of Lavender in Ar- Type : sub-shrub

riyadh. Height : 0.3 m-1 m

Spread : 0.5 m-1.5 m
Foliage : evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : blue, violet
Size : 2 cm - 5 cm
Period : March - June
Smell : scented, aroma,
strong, pleasantly
scented, gives
freely of its scent,
leaf, flower, spicy

FRUIT
Type of fruit : nutlet, loment
Fruit size : 0.1 cm
Toxicity : edible when
processed

188
 Lawsonia inermis, Lythraceae

Henna, Egyptian Privet, Mignonette Tree

GENERAL
Egyptian Privet or Henna grows wild in the Hejaz where it has become naturalised on alluvial
Origin : sub-tropical soils along watercourses. It is grown throughout the Kingdom as an ornamental shrub. Fast-
Vigour : fairly fast growing, it reaches the proportions of a small tree. Henna is a somewhat straggly, many bran-
growing
Humidity : very arid, semi-
ched, glabrous shrub up to 6 metres high with a greyish-brown bark. The size of the small, pale
arid, semi-humid,
very humid
grey-green, elliptical leaves is dependent on the availability of water. L. inermis bears numerous,
Propagation : sowing and very fragrant, usually whitish, sometimes reddish flowers, in large, pyramidal, terminal panicles,
pricking out,
cuttings
in summer. The globose fruit capsules, are purplish-green and many-seeded. Propagation is by
Maintenance : moderate cuttings or seed, and the thick seed coat must be pre-germinated before sowing. Henna requires
full sun and high temperatures, and will survive light frosts. Very drought-resistant, it needs
CONDITIONS
Urban climate : resistant
moderate water in summer and deep watering to improve its appearance during hot weather. It
Dessication : resistant prefers stony and sandy soils, with good drainage, but adapts to heavy, fertile clay soils. It is not
Stagnant water : vulnerable salt-tolerant. Henna is susceptible to only a very few pests and diseases. L. inermis is of great
Irrigation
Salinity/ppm
:
:
medium
low (1000 ppm)
importance to Muslims, where it is used in marriage ceremonies: the leaves are ground into a
Hardiness : -3°C
paste that can be used to decorate the palms of the hands and the soles of the feet or to dye the
hair. Tucked into a garden, it will provide an exclusive fragrance. It is also useful as a hedge plant,
SHAPE although clipping will remove the scented flowers. Careful pruning is necessary to keep the plant
Type : shrub
Height : 4 m-6 m
compact.
Spread : 3 m-4 m
Foliage : deciduous

FLOWER
Colour : pale pink
Size : 5 cm - 15 cm
Period : July - September
Smell : scented, flower

FRUIT
Type of fruit : capsule
Fruit size : 0.8 cm

189
 Leucaena leucocephala, Mimosaceae

Horse Tamarind, Wild Tamarind

This is fast-growing tree, native to tropical America, which has become naturalised on all con- GENERAL
tinents. In Arriyadh, too, it is now relatively common. Basically a weed, the habitats of which Origin : sub-tropical,
are watercourses, disturbed sites and often agricultural land, the Horse Tamarind is a small tree tropical
Vigour : fairly fast
up to 10 metres tall with a slender trunk and rough, brown bark. It creates dense stands where growing
conditions are favourable. The leaves are bright green, bipinnate and fine; the numerous white Humidity : very arid, semi-
arid, semi-humid,
flowers, on long stalks, are like pin-cushions in spiky clusters. Trees are usually covered with the very humid

long, brown fruit pods, which can create a lot of litter and produce a multitude of seedlings. It is Propagation : sowing and
pricking out
not frost-hardy and grows on most soils, though poorly on acid soil. It tolerates drought well, but Maintenance : moderate
needs irrigation until established. Trees are propagated by seed, which need scarification as well
as cuttings. L. leucocephala responds well to fertiliser and soil liming. It is susceptible to insect CONDITIONS
Urban climate : resistant
infestations. At the end of the last century (CE), its use was heavily promoted as a shade plant on Dessication : resistant
agricultural plantations, in land reclamation, erosion control, water conservation, reforestation Stagnant water : vulnerable

and soil improvement programs. It is also used as a green manure crop (nitrogen fixation), for Irrigation : low
Salinity/ppm : moderate (3000
windbreaks and firebreaks. The Horse Tamarind requires more maintenance than is usual for ppm)
an arid region plant, including regular grooming to improve its appearance, pruning after frost Hardiness : -3°C

damage and weeding to remove unwanted seedlings. It should be used sparingly. SHAPE
Type : tree
Height : 4 m-10 m
Spread : 4 m-7 m
Foliage : deciduous

FLOWER
Colour : light yellow
Size : 2 cm - 3 cm
Period : April - December

FRUIT
Type of fruit : pod
Fruit size : 19 cm
Toxicity : inedible

190
 Leucophyllum frutescens, Scrophulariaceae

Texas Ranger, Texas Sage

GENERAL
Texas Ranger is a dense, grey-leaved shrub native to Texas and Mexico. Slow-growing, it reaches a
Origin : temperate,
height of 2.5 metres with an equal spread. The silvery-grey, soft leaves form a compact foliage and
sub-Mediterranean,
Mediterranean,
the masses of rose-purple flowers sometimes cover the whole plant, providing a splash of bright
sub-tropical colour in summer and a pleasant fragrance in spring. L. frutescens requires full sun and likes
Vigour : normal growth
rate
intense heat: in the shade, it will become straggly. It is highly drought-resistant and grows best
Humidity : very arid, semi- on well-drained, alkaline, sandy soil, which can be poor or stony. Being frost-tolerant, moderate
arid
Propagation : sowing and
watering is required, occasionally deep in summer, and waterlogging should be avoided. Propa-
pricking out, gation is by cuttings. Generally pest-free, it is susceptible to Texas (Cotton) root rot. This shrub
cuttings
Maintenance : low
is well adapted to desert conditions and was first introduced into Arriyadh’s residential areas in
the early 1980s (CE) at the Staff Housing project for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, where it was
CONDITIONS observed that it could also be sheared into hedges and shapes. There are many cultivars with a
Urban climate : resistant
Dessication : resistant
range of flower and leaf colours. It is excellent as a colourful accent and contrast to other greener
Stagnant water : vulnerable plants, and for planting in transition zones between intensive and extensive landscapes. It can
Irrigation : low be used on roadsides, in parks and as a screen. Maintenance requirements are low; pruning back
Salinity/ppm : moderate (2800
ppm)
creates denser foliage.
Hardiness : -15°C

SHAPE
Type : shrub
Height : 1.5 m-2.5 m
Spread : 1.5 m-2 m
Foliage : evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : purple
Size : 2 cm - 3 cm
Period : March - June

FRUIT
Type of fruit : capsule
Fruit size : 0.4 cm

191
 Lobelia erinus, Campanulaceae

Bedding Lobelia

Originating in South Africa, Lobelia is a herbaceous perennial, usually grown as an annual bed- GENERAL
ding plant and widely planted across the globe for summer colour. In Arriyadh, it is popular for Origin : temperate,
winter colour displays. Plants are prostrate or scrambling up to 20 cm high. The light green lea- Mediterranean
Humidity : semi-humid, very
ves are oval, 10 mm long and 4–8 mm broad, with a serrated margin. Depending on the variety, humid
flower colours are of various shades of blue, sometimes white, and borne in loose panicles; each Propagation : sowing and
pricking out
flower is tubular, flattening out to a broad three- to five-lobed tip. Usually best in full sun, it will Maintenance : low
also tolerate shade in Arriyadh. Soils should be fertile and moist as well as well drained. Plants
require abundant water, but should not be waterlogged in winter. Propagation is by seeds, which CONDITIONS
Urban climate : resistant
are poisonous. Generally pest-free, plants may suffer from stem and root rot. Lobelia is a well- Dessication : vulnerable
known garden plant, grown for its long flowering period. In Arriyadh, it will survive mild frosts Stagnant water : vulnerable

and continue flowering after its planting in late autumn until the heat of early summer, when it Irrigation : high
Salinity/ppm : low (1000 ppm)
will begin to burn. L. erinus is normally used as an edging plant or groundcover; there are also Hardiness : -3°C
trailing or cascading varieties, which are suitable for baskets, containers and the tops of walls.
Apart from weeding, it requires little maintenance after being planted out. SHAPE
Type : annual
Height : 0.1 m-0.4 m
Spread : 0.25 m-0.4 m
Foliage : evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : violet, blue
Size : 1 cm - 2 cm
Period : April - November

FRUIT
Type of fruit : capsule
Fruit size : 0.8 cm

192
 Lobularia maritima, Brassicaceae

Sweet Alyssum

GENERAL
Sweet Alyssum is a short-lived perennial native to the Mediterranean Basin and the Canary
Origin : Mediterranean,
Islands. The generic name refers to the small seedpods, while maritima shows its preference
temperate for a maritime climate. It grows about 15 cm high forming lacy mats some 30 cm across. The
Vigour : fast growing
Humidity : semi-arid, semi-
lanceolate leaves are evergreen making the background for protruding terminal clusters of white
humid inflorescences. They have four petals, as typical for the mustard family. Cultivars often produce
Propagation : sowing and
pricking out
flowers in lilac or violet for a long period of time. The flowers emit a very pleasant scent which
Maintenance : moderate attracts insects. After flowering, the plants should be cut back to restart their floral display. In
containers, they make an impressive effect, spelling over the rim. They may be used for massed
CONDITIONS
Urban climate : resistant
planting or edging and can cover empty ground wherever there is enough light. They tolerate
Dessication : vulnerable full or partial sun and demand a well-drained soil. Other than these, the reliable Sweet Alyssum
Stagnant water : vulnerable has no further particular requirements. Heat is tolerated, as are low temperatures, and irrigation
Irrigation : high
Salinity/ppm : high (3500 ppm)
may be done with some level of salt. The plant thrives even in crevices, still producing flowers in
Hardiness : -3°C abundance. However, it also responds well to frequent watering and fertilising with slow-release
granules. Sowing on site is possible in autumn, but more often plants are started in pots. After
SHAPE
Type : annual, perennial
transplanting, it should be given some attention until it becomes established. In suitable locations,
Height : 0.05 m-0.15 m it may self-seed. It is most often seen in Arriyadh as part of a winter colour display on road verges.
Spread : 0.15 m-0.3 m
Foliage : evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : white, lilac, violet
Period : January - May
Smell : scented, strong,
gives freely of
its scent, flower,
sweet

FRUIT
Type of fruit : silique
Fruit size : 0.3 cm

193
 Lonicera japonica ‘Halliana’, Caprifoliaceae

Japanese Honeysuckle

Lonicera japonica ‘Halliana’ is the Japanese or Hall’s Honeysuckle. Honeysuckle is native to eas- GENERAL
tern Asia, including China, Japan and Korea. The plant belongs to the vine family, and climbs to Origin : temperate
a height of 5 metres. For climbing, it needs a grit or fence in order to twine. The leaves are ever- Vigour : fairly fast
growing
green to partly deciduous in an ovate shape in light green. The delicate flowers attain a size of 4 Humidity : very arid, semi-
cm. They begin to flower in bright white and turn deep yellow while withering. The flowers exude arid, semi-humid,
very humid,
a pleasant sweet fragrance in spring and summer. After flowering, black inedible berries appear. extremely humid

Lonicera japonica is undemanding in terms of site requirements. It tolerates some drought, hot Propagation : cuttings
Maintenance : moderate
winds, poor soil and hot sun, and revels in heat. However, it can be affected by frost because it
prefers temperatures above 1°C; otherwise it becomes deciduous. It will leaf out quickly again CONDITIONS
in warm weather. With constant adequate irrigation, it will look fresh and green. Although it is Urban climate : resistant

drought-tolerant, it will look mangy and sections will die out with lack of water. Periodic pruning Dessication
Stagnant water :
: vulnerable
vulnerable
is recommended for thinning and to control growth. Honeysuckle should not be planted too clo- Irrigation : medium
se to shrubs or trees, because it can take over. On hillside planting or as a slope stabiliser, it will Salinity/ppm : moderate (1800
ppm)
control erosion. For Arriyadh, it is a recommended plant for screening, park plantations, public Hardiness : 0°C
open spaces, urban areas in pedestrian precincts and the tops of walls. Quick shade can be gained
for gazebos where the sweet, enchanting fragrance can be enjoyed SHAPE
Type : climbers
Height : 3 m-6 m
Spread : 3 m-6 m
Foliage : evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : bright white,
secondary: deep
yellow
Size : 3 cm - 4 cm
Period : May - July
Smell : scented, strong,
pleasantly
scented, flower,
sweet, fruity

FRUIT
Type of fruit : berry
Fruit size : 0.6 cm
Toxicity : inedible

194
 Lycium shawii, Solanaceae

Boxthorn, Desert-Thorn, awsaj, shaz

GENERAL
Lycium shawii is called awsaj or shaz in Arabic, while the English common name is Boxthorn
Origin : Mediterranean, or Desert-Thorn. The shrub or small tree is distributed throughout the Arabian peninsula, sou-
sub-tropical thwest Africa and the Mediterranean basin. Lycium grows up to 4 metres high with a spread of
Vigour : fast growing
Humidity : very arid, semi-
6 metres. It is densely branched and armed with tiny thorns. The small leaves are dark green.
arid The 7-mm-broad, star-like white flowers appear in spring. After flowering, edible pea-size red
Propagation : sowing and
pricking out, berries develop. The plant attracts birds and bees. Lycium is adapted to desert conditions; and
cuttings can withstand drought, frost, wind, grazing and heat. The demands on the soil are less; it grows
Maintenance : low
on rocky clayey soil. Salt tolerance is very high. The shrub needs nearly no irrigation when once
CONDITIONS established, and has tap roots. Pruning will improve dense growth, and seeds and cuttings are
Urban climate : resistant used for propagation. Lycium can easily be found around Riadh. It is very useful for open country,
Dessication : resistant
Stagnant water : vulnerable
as a coloniser, hillside plantation species, slope stabiliser and for environmental consolidation. In
Irrigation : none open landscape areas, the shrub is popular because it can be planted as a hedge or windbreak and
Salinity/ppm : high (3500 ppm) also provides fodder for livestock. Natural planting themes such as rock or steppe gardens can
Hardiness : -9°C
be created with Lycium shawii planted as dominant, grouped plant or as a hedge. A relative of
SHAPE Boxthron, the Goji, became very popular, because it is very healthy, rich in vitamins and mineral
Type : shrub, tree nutrients.
Height : 4m
Spread : 6m
Foliage : deciduous

FLOWER
Colour : white, lilac
Size : 1.2 cm
Period : March - May

FRUIT
Type of fruit : berry
Fruit size : 0.5 cm
Toxicity : poisonous, edible
when processed

195
 Macfadyena unguis-cati, Bignoniaceae

Cat‘s Claw Vine

This vigorous climber from tropical America can conquer large areas with its self-clinging slender GENERAL
stems. The fast-growing Cat’s Claw can reach 8 metres in height. It is still traded frequently under Origin : Mediterranean,
its outdated generic names Bignonia and Doxantha. Glossy, evergreen leaves are borne in pairs sub-tropical,
tropical
and end in three-clawed tendrils that adhere to most surfaces except glass or metal. Bright-yellow Vigour : fairly fast
flowers appear from late spring to autumn. They are followed by brown, bean-like pods with Humidity :
growing
semi-arid, semi-
seeds that germinate easily. Transplanting should be done carefully without disturbing the sensi- humid

tive roots and the upright, spherical tuber. It is recommended that the stems be cut to the ground Propagation : sowing and
pricking out,
after planting, since only new growth attaches itself to supports. This radical treatment allows cuttings

it to cling faster. Once established, this climber tolerates full sun, but partial shade and some Maintenance : high

drought are also tolerated, while still resulting in a lush appearance. It resists heat and frost up to CONDITIONS
–9°C. It tolerates a wide range of soils, but revels in nutritious ground with a high humus content Urban climate : resistant

and frequent irrigation. Maintaining this plant can cause skin irritation. Owing to its rampant Dessication : resistant
Stagnant water : vulnerable
growth, the Cat’s Claw needs some containment if planted next to buildings. Pruning may be ne- Irrigation : high
cessary to keep the climber from getting too heavy. It is better located near walls or escarpments Salinity/ppm : moderate (3000
which can be overgrown. Stems without support hang down forming a curtain of filigree leaves. Hardiness :
ppm)
-9°C
It is occasionally seen in Saudi Arabia, clinging even to high building facades.
SHAPE
Type : climbers
Height : 4 m-10 m
Spread : 6 m-12 m
Foliage : evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : bright yellow
Size : 20 cm
Period : May - September

FRUIT
Type of fruit : capsule
Fruit size : 45 cm

196
 Maerua crassifolia, Capparaceae

Jiga, sarh, merro

GENERAL
This large shrub, growing up to 5 metres tall, known as sarh or merro in Arabic, is native to
Origin : sub-tropical,
the Arabian Peninsula. Its foliage is used as fodder for camels and is a source of food in Africa,
tropical where it is made into soups and other dishes. As a widespread, evergreen, and densely branched
Vigour : slow-growing
Humidity : very arid, semi-
small tree, usually with a rounded flattish crown, it occurs in drier areas with sandy, gravelly and
arid silty soils. The intricate, glaucous, spiny branches have small simple, often dense, elliptical leaves,
Propagation : sowing and
pricking out
which are slightly hairy and about 1 cm long. Yellow-green clusters of flowers with many stamens
Maintenance : low are borne in spring and the red berry fruits are bean-shaped. The seeds were considered sacred
to the ancient Egyptians and there are a number of historical medicinal uses, as well as uses in
CONDITIONS
Urban climate : resistant
apiculture. Shrubs are tap-rooted and have a high salt tolerance. In fact, they tolerate very harsh
Dessication : resistant desert conditions, are hardy and withstand wind. The leaves and fruits are palatable to all animals
Stagnant water : vulnerable except horses and donkeys The sweet fruits are also used for human consumption. M. crassifolia
Irrigation : low, none
Salinity/ppm : high (5000 ppm)
has good potential as a native plant for landscape design: it is useful in afforestation and for crea-
Hardiness : 0°C ting shelter belts. Requiring only minimal irrigation, whereby deep watering will increase growth,
this is a low-maintenance plant.
SHAPE
Type : shrub, tree
Height : 5m
Spread : 4m
Foliage : evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : light yellow
Size : 2 cm
Period : March - April

FRUIT
Type of fruit : berry
Fruit size : 6 cm
Toxicity : edible

197
 Malvaviscus arboreus, Malvaceae

Wax Mallow, Turk’s Cap

Known as Wax Mallow or Turk’s Cap, this shrub spread from Central America across all warm GENERAL
climates, and is grown in containers where winters are cold. It grows at moderate speed to form Origin : sub-tropical,
a round shrub some 2 metres across, eventually reaching double this size if conditions are ideal. tropical
Vigour : fairly fast
Wax Mallows resemble low Chinese Hibiscus, except for their flowers that seem to remain closed, growing
giving them the other common name Sleeping Hibiscus. The protruding carpel is cloaked by Humidity : very humid,
extremely humid
bright red petals forming tubular flowers from spring until late autumn. Seeds develop in incons- Propagation : cuttings, sowing
picuous capsules and may be used for propagation. Much more common are softwood cuttings and pricking out,
layer
to multiply the shrub. The evergreen leaves are trilobed with a serrate margin. Usually bright Maintenance : moderate
green, they immediately indicate malnutrition such as alkaline soil by turning yellow. Fertile,
well-drained soil with frequent irrigation allows locations in full sun, but this shrub also thrives CONDITIONS
Dessication : vulnerable
in partial shade. It takes pruning to achieve a neat appearance and readily regenerates after severe Stagnant water : vulnerable
cutting back. Pinching the branches during the growing season encourages compact growth and Irrigation : high

the production of flowers. Low temperatures are tolerated without any damage. Wax Mallows Salinity/ppm : moderate (1800
ppm)
are reliable shrubs in small gardens and pedestrian precincts, and are often seen in Arriyadh in Hardiness : +3°C
mixed shrub borders. They may grow in groups or as a flowering hedge in open ground or in
SHAPE
containers. Copious amounts of flowers are produced, but also litter, demanding an appropriate Type : shrub
location or frequent cleaning. Height : 2 m-4.5 m
Spread : 2 m-4 m
Foliage : evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : red
Size : 3 cm - 5 cm
Period : April - October

FRUIT
Type of fruit : schizocarp
Fruit size : 0.8 cm
Toxicity : inedible

198
 Mangifera indica, Anacardiaceae

Mango Tree, amba

GENERAL
The unmistakable Mango Tree is a huge tree when mature, reaching a height of 30 metres with
Origin : tropical
a broad, and rounded canopy of the same width. Native to India, Myanmar and Malaysia, this
Humidity : very humid, slow-growing, long-lived tree will not reach these proportions in Arriyadh, but it can still make
extremely humid
Propagation : sowing and
an attractive, fruit-bearing tree when well cultivated and protected from frost. Nearly evergreen,
pricking out alternate leaves, up to 30 cm long and 5 cm wide, are borne in rosettes at the tips of the branches;
Maintenance : high
new leaves are yellowish to wine-red. Hundreds of small, yellowish flowers are borne in spring
CONDITIONS in large clusters. The fruits, varying in form, size, colour and quality depending on the variety,
Urban climate : vulnerable contain a single, flattened, pale, hard stone. Preferring rich, deep, well-drained soil, but not too
Dessication : vulnerable
particular with regard to soil type, the tap root may descend to a depth of 6 metres. It performs
Stagnant water : vulnerable
Irrigation : high
well in sand, gravel and on limestone. Mango trees grow readily from seed and require high ni-
Salinity/ppm : low (700 ppm) trogen fertilisation in the early years. Drought tolerance is low and regular irrigation is required.
Hardiness : 0°C Usually no pruning is done at first and then only to improve the form. The Mango has a great
SHAPE
many predators: some secrete honeydew, giving rise to sooty mould on leaves. One serious disease
Type : tree is powdery mildew, controllable by regular spraying. Nutrient deficiency is indicated by paleness,
Height : 18 m-30 m distortion and limpness of foliage. Lack of iron produces chlorosis in young trees. Mangos are
Spread
Foliage
:
:
12 m-30 m
evergreen
good as specimen shade trees in Arriyadh, but require high maintenance.
FLOWER
Colour : light yellow, pale
green
Size : 40 cm
Period : February - April

FRUIT
Type of fruit : drupe(fleshy/
juicy)
Fruit size : 12 cm - 15 cm
Toxicity : produced for
food, edible, fruit

199
 Melia azedarach, Meliaceae

Bead Tree, Chinaberry, Persian Lilac, Pride of India

Melia is also called Bead Tree, Chinaberry, Persian Lilac and Pride of India. Melia azederach GENERAL
is a deciduous tree that reaches a height of between 6 and 17 metres with a spread of up to 12 Origin : Mediterranean,
metres. Azederach comes from the Persian ‘azad dirakht’, and means ‘the gorgeous tree’. It ori- sub-tropical,
tropical
ginates from southwest Asia and western China. It has a broad open crown and often develops Vigour : fairly fast
multi-branches. The fresh-green leaves are arranged alternately, with an ovate form and dentate Humidity :
growing
semi-arid, semi-
margins. The lilac, violet and whitish-yellow flowers appear in spring, in panicles up to 25 cm humid, very
humid
long. The single flowers are about 1.5 cm in size. The tree flowers after three or four years for the Propagation : sowing and
first time. After flowering, the tree develops attractive round yellow berries, each about 1 cm in pricking out,
cuttings
size. Prayer beads were once made from the seeds. Occasional pruning of the tree is recommen- Maintenance : moderate
ded. Propagation can be done by seed and in good conditions by self-seeding and by runners.
The Bead Tree normally grows in regions with an annual rainfall of between 600 and 1,000 mm. CONDITIONS
Urban climate : resistant
Accordingly, the tree responds well to air humidity and regular irrigation. It can also withstand Dessication : vulnerable
medium salinity. As a younger tree, it may suffer from winter frost. In Arriyadh, it can be found Stagnant water : vulnerable
in the Diplomatic Quarter in the inner Tuwaiq Palace garden. For use, it is recommended that Irrigation : medium

this tree be planted in protected areas with appropriate microclimates, such as in parks or larger Salinity/ppm
Hardiness
:
:
high (3500 ppm)
-12°C
gardens, where it is also protected from wind damage. It is beautiful as a specimen tree or in
small groups. SHAPE
Type : tree
Height : 6 m-17 m
Spread : 8 m-12 m
Foliage : deciduous

FLOWER
Colour : lilac, violet,
yellow
Size : 15 cm - 25 cm
Period : May - June
Smell : scented,
moderate, flower,
sweet

FRUIT
Type of fruit : berry
Fruit size : 0.8 cm - 1.4 cm
Toxicity : poisonous

200
 Mentha x piperita, Lamiaceae

Mint, na anah

GENERAL
Peppermint is the common name for this herb and perennial plant. Mentha piperita is a cultivar
Origin : temperate, derived from Mentha crispa and Mentha aquatica. It is known only in cultivation, so that the
sub-Mediterranean natural distribution cannot be named. This Mint grows to a height of 60 cm. Its leaves are ovate
Humidity : semi-arid, semi-
humid, very and fresh green, and the aromatic foliage is deciduous. The flowers appear in summer as pink
Propagation :
humid
layer, cuttings
spikes. Mentha loves a sunny location, but with good irrigated soil. For a favoured location, it
Maintenance : moderate can be used as grouped plantation or groundcover at pond edges or in swamps. With sun, the
aromatic oils in the plant will be optimally developed. The leaves can be used for fresh mint tea,
CONDITIONS even when dry. In Arab countries, peppermint tea is served after dinner because of its good dige-
Dessication : vulnerable
Stagnant water : vulnerable
stive properties, in addition to the refreshing taste. It has an anti-bacterial function; the aromatic
Irrigation : high oil helps with headaches and can be inhaled to alleviate colds. Mentha is not suitable for babies,
Salinity/ppm : moderate (1800
ppm)
because the oil is too strong. Propagation can be done by runners and cuttings which root easily.
Hardiness : -15°C Sometimes, if the location meets the plant’s requirements, Mentha can be invasive, but can be
easily controlled by reducing the water supply. Pruning from time to time, and at the beginning
SHAPE
Type : perennial
of a new season, will support the dense growth. In Arriyadh, Peppermint is highly attractive in
Height : 0.3 m-0.6 m private gardens next to ponds, because it can be harvested directly for a fresh tea. It is often found
Spread : 0.4 m-0.8 m growing on farms.
Foliage : deciduous

FLOWER
Colour : pink
Size : 1.5 cm
Period : August -
September
Smell : aroma, strong,
leaf, spicy

FRUIT
Type of fruit : nutlet
Fruit size : 0.7 cm

201
 Millettia pinnata, Fabaceae

Indian Beech

Millettia pinnata (previously named Derris indica), commonly called Indian Beech, is a shrub or GENERAL
tree of about 8 metres height, while it may reach 25 metres in its homelands from India to Thai- Origin : sub-tropical,
land. It has been planted in many places in Arriyadh. The gnarled, fissured trunk bears a wide- tropical
Humidity : semi-arid, semi-
spreading crown with weeping branches. Young foliage is reddish at first, turning dark-green humid, very
with age. Leaves are dropped in early spring, but are replaced a few weeks later. They are arranged Propagation :
humid
sowing and
alternately, pinnate and attract the eye with their shiny surface. Strongly fragrant flowers are pricking out,
cuttings
borne on drooping racemes. They appear in late spring and summer, either in white or pink with Maintenance : moderate
a purple throat, and are followed by leathery, brown pods. Indian Beeches are absolutely resistant
to salinity and high alkalinity, since they occur naturally along seashores together with man- CONDITIONS

groves, where they are used to water-logging. They also tolerate drought, together with shade and Urban climate :
Dessication :
resistant
vulnerable
full sun. Seedlings are not as tough, but once grown up, they also tolerate some frost and desert Stagnant water : resistant
heat. This tree seems to adapt to any condition, but looks best if planted in deep, well-drained soil Irrigation : high

that retains some moisture or receives frequent irrigation. The tree propagates readily by its bean- Salinity/ppm : very high (13000
ppm)
like seeds and plenty of root suckers. Pruning is required to lead the Indian Beech from a shrub Hardiness : +3°C
into a tree. It rejuvenates when pollarded or even coppiced. It is an ornamental tree for gardens,
SHAPE
parks and avenues, where it should be lined up at intervals of about 8 metres. Type : tree, shrub
Height : 8 m-25 m
Spread : 8 m-25 m
Foliage : semi-evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : pale pink
Size : 15 cm
Period : May - August
Smell : scented, flower

FRUIT
Type of fruit : pod
Fruit size : 6 cm

202
 Moricandia sinaica, Brassicaceae

Moricandia, yurak, audthan al himar, ithn al himar

GENERAL
A perennial herb, known as yurak or audthan al himar, growing to a height of 75 cm in isolated
Origin : sub-tropical
bushes on silty and gravelly ground, this native plant is widespread in the desert around Ar-
Humidity : extremely arid, riyadh. Erect, tough, green branches with broad leaves up to 10 cm long wrap round the stem.
very arid, semi-
arid Pinkish-blue flowers are borne in the spring and the fruit is an erect, cylindrical silique 7 cm
Propagation : direct sowing,
sowing and
long. The whole plant has an attractive purplish cast to its appearance. Fast-growing, it has lateral,
pricking out deep roots and is very hardy and drought-tolerant with a moderate salt tolerance. Propagation
Maintenance : low is easy from seeds. M. sinaica has good potential for landscape design use as a groundcover and
CONDITIONS
colourful accent in desert schemes. Apart from occasional tidying up and some water in summer
Urban climate : resistant to improve its appearance, it requires very little maintenance.
Dessication : resistant
Stagnant water : vulnerable
Irrigation : none
Salinity/ppm : moderate (3000
ppm)
Hardiness : -6°C

SHAPE
Type : perennial
Height : 0.5 m-0.75 m
Spread : 0.5 m-0.8 m
Foliage : evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : pastel pink, olive-
green
Size : 1 cm
Period : March - May

FRUIT
Type of fruit : silique
Fruit size : 7 cm

203
 Moringa oleifera, Moringaceae

Horseradish tree

The Drumstick or Horseradish Tree is an erect, fast-growing tree with open branches and a grace- GENERAL
ful appearance reaching up to 10 metres in height. Native to India, it is characterised by its thick, Origin : sub-tropical,
dark corky grey bark, delicate foliage and beautiful, fragrant flowers. The distinctive, bipinnate tropical
Vigour : fairly fast
leaves up to 40 cm long have widely spaced, oval, clear green leaflets on short stalks. Attractive growing, fast
whitish-yellow, highly scented flowers are borne in loose clusters covering the whole tree in spring Humidity :
growing
semi-arid, semi-
and early autumn. The fruit, up to 50 cm long, is a bright-green, ridged pod containing many humid, very
humid
seeds, which are a popular ingredient in curries. The tree grows best on a dry sandy soil and has Propagation : direct sowing,
a high drought resistance. In Arriyadh, it requires regular irrigation and a sheltered microclimate sowing and
pricking out,
with a humid atmosphere. Propagation is from seed and cuttings. The Horseradish Tree is useful cuttings, grafting
in many ways: its name is derived from the roots, which taste like horseradish, and the seeds Maintenance : low

yield oil for machinery, salad oil and soaps. The bark contains a coarse fibre for making mats, CONDITIONS
paper and cordage. The branches are used for fodder. M. oleifera makes an ideal shade tree for Dessication : vulnerable
courtyards, patios and small gardens. Undemanding, it requires careful pruning: branches can Stagnant water : vulnerable

be brittle and are planted as a living fence. It is not susceptible to pests or diseases. A wild shrub Irrigation
Salinity/ppm
:
:
medium
high (3500 ppm)
form growing in rocky wadi sides is M. peregrina (al ban in Arabic): up to 3 metres high, it has Hardiness : +3°C
profuse flowers, is drought-tolerant and has good potential for garden cultivation.
SHAPE
Type : tree
Height : 8 m-10 m
Spread : 6 m-8 m
Foliage : deciduous

FLOWER
Colour : white
Size : 15 cm
Period : April - September
Smell : pleasantly
scented, sweet,
flower

FRUIT
Type of fruit : pod
Fruit size : 50 cm

204
 Morus nigra, Moraceae

Black Mulberry, toot

GENERAL
Morus nigra has the common name Black Mulberry, in Arabic toot. It is a tree with deciduous
Origin : temperate,
foliage. Black Mulberry originates from West Asia and prefers a temperate climate. Mulberry was
sub-Mediterranean,
Mediterranean,
the host of the caterpillar that has been used for the production of silk. It grows to a height and
sub-tropical spread of between 6 and 15 metres. The crown has a round regular shape. The leaves are dark
Humidity : semi-arid, semi-
humid, very
green and cottony (pubescent) underneath. They are arranged alternately, with an ovate form and
humid serrate margins. The flower is inconspicuous, but the fruit appears raspberry-like in a black pur-
Propagation : sowing and
pricking out, ple egg-shaped berry. The fruit sap is very intense in colour, a consideration for their use next to
cuttings footpaths, because of possible stains on the paving. Fruitless varieties are therefore more suitable
Maintenance : low
in landscape design. The fruit is edible. The Mulberry likes penetrable, limey soils. The tree is
CONDITIONS propagated by seeds. Morus can withstand urban microclimates, but is vulnerable to desiccation.
Urban climate : resistant It therefore needs good irrigation with low salinity. Because of its requirements, the Black Mul-
Dessication : vulnerable
Stagnant water : vulnerable
berry is advisable for more sheltered situations, where microclimates provide air humidity, such
Irrigation : medium as lawned areas. Morus can suffer from frost, and shelter against frost damage is advisable for
Salinity/ppm : low (700 ppm) young trees. Its use in urban design can be seen in public open space and park plantations, as well
Hardiness : -18°C
as in private parks. Morus is appealing as a specimen tree or in grouped planting. The tree has
SHAPE low maintenance requirements. Normally, pruning is not necessary with this slow-growing tree.
Type : tree
Height : 6 m-15 m
Spread : 6 m-15 m
Foliage : deciduous

FLOWER
Colour : green
Size : 1.5 cm
Period : May - May

FRUIT
Type of fruit : drupe(fleshy/
juicy)
Fruit size : 1 cm - 3 cm
Toxicity : produced for
food, edible, fruit

205
 Murraya paniculata, Rutaceae

Orange Jessamine, Satinwood

Orange Jessamine, named for its delicate orange blossom perfume, is a shrub or small tree which GENERAL
will reach a height and width of 4 metres. Originating in India and southeast Asia, and widely Origin : sub-tropical,
distributed in tropical countries, it has a lush, green, thick foliage of shiny, pinnate, aromatic lea- tropical
Vigour : normal growth
ves and masses of scented, waxy, white flowers in spring, summer and autumn, followed by small, rate
bright red fruits. One of the best-loved garden shrubs in many countries, it is now often seen in Humidity : semi-humid, very
humid, extremely
Arriyadh, where it makes an excellent hedge, although clipping will reduce the number of flowers. humid

It is frost-tender in Arriyadh, but will recover after a light pruning. Best in light shade, Mur- Propagation : sowing and
pricking out,
raya prefers an organically rich, well-drained soil. Regular fertilising and watering is required, cuttings

although it will tolerate a dry period. Propagation is by seed and cuttings. Pests are not usually Maintenance : low

observed. Shrubs will need some pruning to keep them in shape and, if a hedge or formal shape CONDITIONS
is desired, clipping must be regular, because new growth recurs quickly. M. paniculata is also Urban climate : vulnerable

very useful as a free-growing screen and makes an ornamental accent plant in large containers. Dessication : vulnerable
Stagnant water : vulnerable
Irrigation : medium
Salinity/ppm : moderate (1200
ppm)
Hardiness : -3°C

SHAPE
Type : shrub
Height : 2 m-4 m
Spread : 2 m-4 m
Foliage : evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : white
Size : 1.5 cm - 1.8 cm
Period : May - September
Smell : scented, strong,
gives freely of
its scent, flower,
sweet, fruity

FRUIT
Type of fruit : berry
Fruit size : 1 cm
Toxicity : inedible

206
 Musa x paradisiaca, Musaceae

Sweet Banana, mawz

GENERAL
The Sweet Banana, or mawz in Arabic, is one of the world’s largest herbaceous plants, which most
Origin : sub-tropical, people would consider a tree. In fact, the ‘trunk’ consists of combined leaf stalks, usually bet-
tropical ween 2 and 6 metres high. They are hybrids between two wild species, Musa balbisiana and Musa
Vigour : fast growing
Humidity : very humid,
acuminata. Both parents originate from humid, tropical Asia where the hybrid’s cultivars ‘Dwarf
extremely humid Cavendish’ and ‘Grand Nain’ still make an important cash crop just as they do in tropical Ameri-
Propagation
Maintenance
:
:
division
moderate
ca. The only way to propagate Sweet Bananas is by separating their offshoots. After flowering and
fruiting, the shoot dies and is followed by new sprouts. In time, a single banana grows into a stout,
CONDITIONS decorative clump. Its huge leaves may become 2.7 metres in length and 60 cm wide. Wind easily
Urban climate :
Dessication :
vulnerable
vulnerable
splits the spade along its veins, resulting in a frond-like appearance. They look best in locations
Stagnant water : vulnerable
protected from wind. The flowerbud resembles a purple heart that opens up numerous tubular
Irrigation : high florets between bracts. Along the hanging cluster, tiers are grown with up to 20 fruits each. These
Salinity/ppm : low (1000 ppm) bunches are called ‘hands’, while the individual, yellow fruits are known as ‘fingers’. Since the
Hardiness : 0°C
banana plants are of tropical descent, they grow flowers and fruit at any time of the year. Com-
SHAPE mercial growers fear the Panama disease, a fungal infection (Fusarium) that attacks the roots. It
Type : shrub, perennial is no serious hazard to private gardens or public parks where Sweet Bananas are often grown for
Height : 1.5 m-3 m
Spread : 1.5 m-2.5 m
their ornamental effects. Not frost-hardy, they are often seen in protected areas on farms.
Foliage : evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : yellow
Period : January -
December
Smell : scented, strong,
fruit, sweet,
fruity

FRUIT
Type of fruit : berry
Fruit size : 9 cm - 15 cm
Toxicity : edible when
processed

207
 Musa acuminata, Musaceae

Dwarf Banana, Dwarf Cavendish

Dwarf Bananas grow to a height of just 2 or 3 metres, and originate from southeast Asia and GENERAL
northern Australia. They require abundant water and a warm location protected from wind. Frost Origin : sub-tropical,
will kill the leaves including the ‘stem’, which is made up of strong petioles. Like many other her- tropical
Vigour : fast growing
baceous plants, it instantly recovers from the corm after freezing, storm-breaking or severe prun- Humidity : very humid,
ing. It tolerates full sun or partial shade, but demands nutrient-rich soil with a high percentage of extremely humid

compost. Dwarf Bananas tolerate heat if abundant water is at hand without being stagnant. The Propagation
Maintenance
:
:
division
moderate
plants are propagated by offsets which are best separated at the end of summer. If temperatures
drop below 12°C, the growth stagnates without any sign of dormancy, except for the interrupted CONDITIONS

thirst. Above this temperature, the Banana Plant is one of the heaviest feeders grown in Arriyadh, Urban climate : vulnerable
Dessication : vulnerable
where it is often seen in protected areas on farms. Liquid fertiliser applied every fortnight sup- Stagnant water : vulnerable
ports it best. However, a lesser outlay is the application of slow-release granules at the beginning Irrigation : high

of spring, summer and autumn. In winter, plants do best without supplemental watering and Salinity/ppm : low (1000 ppm)
Hardiness : 0°C
must not be fertilised. Shoots usually flower during their second year in hanging clusters with
pale-yellow florets. They need another 6 months to ripen. Dwarf Bananas give an immediate fee- SHAPE
ling of an exotic, humid-tropical climate. They should be grown in locations sheltered from the Type : shrub, perennial

wind, adjacent to a pond or as an accent plant in a courtyard. Height

Spread
:
:
2 m-7 m
1.5 m-4 m
Foliage : evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : yellow
Period : January -
December

FRUIT
Type of fruit : berry
Fruit size : 15 cm - 20 cm
Toxicity : produced for
food, edible, fruit

208
 Myrtus communis, Myrtaceae

Greek Myrtle

GENERAL
Myrtus is also called the Greek Myrtle; in Arabic, it is known as ass or hinbleiss. The Greek word
Origin : Mediterranean
‘myron’ means balsam or odorous sap. It is a shrub of Mediterranean origin. The area of distri-
Vigour : normal growth bution reaches from the Canary Islands and the Mediterranean basin to southwest Asia. Often
rate
Humidity : semi-arid, semi-
seen in Arriyadh as a hedge, the Myrtle reaches a height between 1 and 5 metres and a spread
humid, very
humid
of between 3 and 4 metres. The shrub is often multi-branched and round in shape. The foliage is
Propagation : cuttings
evergreen; the leaves are dark green, small and lanceolate. The blossom appears in summer and
Maintenance : moderate the beautiful white single flowers have attractive filaments. The flowers have an appealing scent
and even the leaves have a good spicy flavour when they are rubbed. After flowering, the shrub
CONDITIONS
Urban climate : resistant
develops, dark-blue berries. Maintenance with moderate pruning is advisable. The Myrtle is re-
Dessication : vulnerable sistant to urban microclimates, and can be used as screen and shelter plant. It is suitable for pe-
Stagnant water : vulnerable destrian precincts, public open space and urban areas, and even for small managed roof gardens
Irrigation : high
Salinity/ppm : moderate (1500
and as a topiary plant. The original distribution in the Mediterranean climate should again be
ppm) considered, which means that the Myrtle loves sunny locations, but with sufficient air-humidity
Hardiness : -6°C
and irrigation. It is vulnerable in the case of desiccation and high salinity. The soil should be
SHAPE
penetrable and rocky, but not limey. Myrtles can be used as specimen trees or dominant plants,
Type : shrub as well as hedges. Myrtles will provide appealing compositions in rock or steppe garden themes.
Height : 1 m-5 m
Spread : 3 m-4 m
Foliage : evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : white
Period : May - August
Smell : scented, aroma,
leaf, flower

FRUIT
Type of fruit : berry
Fruit size : 0.8 cm - 1 cm

209
 Nelumbo nucifera, Nelumbonaceae

East Indian Lotus, Sacred Indian Lotus

Native in most countries of Asia, the Lotus plant with its large, showy, water-lily-like flowers, is GENERAL
an aquatic perennial, and is planted in the soil of a pond or lake with its leaves floating on top of Origin : sub-tropical,
the water. It is found in Arriyadh only in sheltered gardens with some shade from the sun. This tropical
Humidity : semi-humid, very
is an iconic plant which creates a beautiful aspect when in full bloom. The flowers rise on thick, humid, extremely
long stems up to 40 cm above the water. Its leaves often reach a height of about 150 cm and may Propagation :
humid
sowing and
be as large as 60 cm in diameter, while the showy flowers can be up to 20 cm in diameter. The pricking out,
division
beautiful and fragrant flowers, ranging in hue from white to hot pink, open in the morning and Maintenance : moderate
petals fall in the afternoon. The leaves are sometimes, and flowers always, raised above the water
surface. The fruits are conical capsule with openings looking like the rose of a watering can, and CONDITIONS

are also decorative. When the seeds are ripe, the pod tips them through the openings into the Urban climate :
Dessication :
vulnerable
vulnerable
water. The Lotus grows best in calm, fresh water: it requires many nutrients good garden; non- Stagnant water : resistant
manured soil is suitable. Fast growing, the Lotus is best contained in a large pond in deep water, Salinity/ppm : low (700 ppm)

but it is also very effective in a large water jar. Propagation is by seed or root division. As in its Hardiness : +3°C

native countries, the leaves of Lotus will turn brown after frost, but the plant is not damaged and SHAPE
revives in spring. Maintenance is moderate, if a tidy effect is desired it becomes intensive, and Type : aquatic
plants must be fertilised during the growing season. Height : 0.4 m-1.5 m
Spread : 2m
Foliage : evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : white, pink,
yellow
Size : 18 cm - 35 cm
Period : April - August
Smell : scented, strong,
flower, sweet

FRUIT
Type of fruit : capsule
Fruit size : 20 cm
Toxicity : edible when
processed

210
 Nerium oleander, Apocynaceae

Oleander, diflah

GENERAL
The Oleander shrub originated in the Balkans, Caucasus and Middle East with their Mediterra-
Origin : sub-Mediterranean,
nean climates. The Arabic name for Oleander is diflah. Oleander is an evergreen shrub growing
Mediterranean between 2 and 3 metres high. The shape of the shrub is mostly round or oval, and multi-branched.
Vigour : fairly fast
growing The leaves lanceolate in shape. The flowers are grouped in an umbelliferous raceme, appearing
Humidity : semi-arid, semi-
humid, very
in summer and quite enchanting. The variety ‘Album’ is distinguished by a brilliant white, ‘Pink
humid Beauty’ in a fresh pink as the name implies, and ‘Sealy Pink’ flowers with a bright pink. After
Propagation : sowing and
pricking out,
flowering, elongated star-shaped fruits appear. The root system is extensive. Maintenance of the
cuttings Oleander is minimal and pruning can be done frequently to the base so it is able to rejuvenate
Maintenance : low
from the ground up. All parts of Oleander are completely poisonous. Propagation can be done by
CONDITIONS
sowing and pricking and by cuttings. The Oleander prefers a full sunny location and is moderate-
Urban climate : resistant ly frost resistant. Irrigation should be moderate, because it likes moist soil. It can withstand a high
Dessication : resistant salinity level. The shrub is heat-resistant and can withstand short-term desiccation. The shrub
Stagnant water : vulnerable
Irrigation : medium
can be used as specimen, dominant plant, grouped or massed planting, and as a flowering hedge.
Salinity/ppm : very high (9000 Owing to the strong root system, it is suitable as a bank stabiliser and for environmental consoli-
Hardiness :
ppm)
-6°C
dation. In landscape design, it will produce good effects as shelter or screen plant. Park planting,
public open spaces, urban areas and container planting are all possible with this attractive shrub.
SHAPE
Type : shrub
Height : 2 m-3 m
Spread : 2 m-6 m
Foliage : evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : light pink
Period : May - September

FRUIT
Type of fruit : pod
Fruit size : 12 cm - 18 cm
Toxicity : highly poisonous

211
 Nymphaea caerulea, Nymphaeaceae

Egyptian Lotus, Blue Water Lily

The Blue Egyptian Water Lily or Blue Lotus – the original habitat may have been Egypt and East GENERAL
Africa – has been found to grow well in Arriyadh, under certain conditions and with high main- Origin : tropical
tenance. An aquatic perennial with thick, black, spongy, tuberous rhizomes, which anchor in the Vigour : fairly fast
growing
mud at the bottom of ponds and lakes, the leaves of this Water Lily are on leaf stalks that arise Humidity : semi-humid, very
directly from the rhizome. They are large, flat, round in shape with notched margins and with a humid, extremely
humid
slit almost to the centre of the leaf, where the petiole is attached. Leaves are relatively short-lived Propagation : direct sowing,
and replaced regularly throughout the growing season. A single plant can cover an area of about division
Maintenance : high
1 sq. m. The elegant, blue, spiky flowers, 10–15 cm across, are held above water on a strong stalk
and appear from spring until the end of summer. Lasting for about four days, they open in mid- CONDITIONS
morning and close in late afternoon: they are sweetly fragrant. This Water Lily is easy to grow; Dessication : vulnerable
Stagnant water : resistant
it requires full sun, good soil and a minimum of 30 cm of water. It should not be planted near Salinity/ppm : low (700 ppm)
fountains or in fast-moving water; the plants also do not like wind. They are best planted in con- Hardiness : +6°C
tainers sunk into the pond and must be fertilised in the growing season in order to flower well.
Propagation is simple, by division, and pot-grown plants should be divided and planted in fresh SHAPE
Type : aquatic
soil every year for good results. Susceptible to aphids and damaged by severe frost, the tropical Height : 0.3 m-0.4 m
Water Lily is a beautiful addition to a garden, but is not very suitable for public areas in Arriyadh. Spread : 1m
Foliage : evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : pastel blue
Size : 10 cm - 15 cm
Period : June - September
Smell : sweet

FRUIT
Type of fruit : capsule
Fruit size : 10 cm
Toxicity : inedible

212
 Nymphaea capensis, Nymphaceae

Cape Blue Water Lily

GENERAL
This other species of tropical Water Lily, native to Africa, is the Cape Blue Water Lily: it is closely
Origin : tropical
related to Nymphaea caerulea and the Blue Lotus, as well as Nymphaea alba, the White Lotus.
Vigour : fairly fast Similar in shape and appearance, the Cape Blue Water Lily is sky-blue in colour and the Blue
growing
Humidity : semi-humid, very
Lotus is a brighter blue. It is found growing abundantly in freshwater habitats in southern Africa.
humid, extremely
humid
N. capensis was introduced from its native South Africa to the USA, where many beautiful vari-
Propagation : direct sowing,
eties were bred, for example, the Star Water Lilies, including ‘Lilac Star’. The flowers have a spicy
division perfume. Essentially, N. capensis has all the same attributes as N. caerulea: it is easily grown, but
Maintenance : high
prefers high acidity in the water. The success of this species in Arriyadh is therefore somewhat
CONDITIONS dependent on this, but it has generally been as good as N. caerulea. It is considered hardy to a
Urban climate : vulnerable winter minimum of –1 to 4°C. The Cape Blue Water Lily grows best in full sun to partial shade
Dessication
Stagnant water :
: vulnerable
resistant
and in relatively shallow water. All Water Lilies are heavy feeders: good, sieved garden loam is
Salinity/ppm : low (700 ppm) recommended, an accumulation of humus at the bottom of the pond is sufficient and nutrients
Hardiness : 0°C should be added in the growing season. Maintenance of these plants is intensive: in very cold
climates, these Water Lilies may be killed if left outdoors during winter.
SHAPE
Type : aquatic
Height : 0.4 m
Spread : 1m
Foliage : evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : pastel white,
pastel pink,
pastel purple
Size : 20 cm
Period : January -
December
Smell : sweet

FRUIT
Type of fruit : capsule
Fruit size : 10 cm
Toxicity : inedible

213
 Ochradenus baccatus, Resedaceae

Taily Weed, kardhi, alandra

Ochradenus is an indigenous plant from the Arabian peninsula. The Arabic names are kardhi or GENERAL
alandra. The plant can be found growing wild all over Arriyadh and the Arriyadh region. The Origin : sub-tropical
shrub can grow to a height of 3 metres. The stems are fresh green; the leaves are small and incons- Vigour : fast growing

picuous. However, the attractive blooms that appear in spring are in 4 cm long panicles with 4 Humidity : very arid, semi-
arid
mm yellow single flowers. The fruits are in 3 mm white berries in panicles. The plant is very well Propagation : direct sowing,
sowing and
adapted to desert conditions, with its tap root and small foliage. It likes silty, rocky soils. Kardhi pricking out
can withstand high salinity. Propagation is by direct sowing or sowing and pricking. Mainte- Maintenance : low

nance is very low; pruning will optimise growth and flowering. As a native plant, Ochradenus
CONDITIONS
can be used in open country, as a bank and slope stabiliser, coloniser, and for environmental Urban climate : resistant
consolidation. Its use is advisable for rehabilitation of plant cover, because of its windbreaking Dessication : resistant

properties. This shrub is also suitable as a hedge and groundcover, and is therefore a good shelter Stagnant water : vulnerable
Irrigation : none
for other plants. The plant can be used as fodder for camels. However, Ochradenus should be Salinity/ppm : high (3500 ppm)
considered in urban planting themes as well. In harsh urban conditions, it will provide green Hardiness : -6°C
foliage where other plants are unable to grow, and it is also a very useful plant in natural schemes
SHAPE
such as Wadi Hanifah. In former times, it was used as medicinal plant; a decoction was used for Type : shrub
wounds, intestinal parasites and to relieve pain. Height : 3m
Spread : 3m
Foliage : semi-evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : yellow
Size : 0.4 cm
Period : March - May

FRUIT
Type of fruit : berry
Fruit size : 3 cm

214
 Ocimum basilicum, Lamiaceae

Basil, rayhan

GENERAL
Ocimum basilicum is known by its common name Basil, or rayhan in Arabic. Its original dis-
Origin : sub-Mediterranean,
tribution is from the Middle East to southeastern Europe and southwest Asia. Basil is an annual
Mediterranean,
sub-tropical
herb that can also enjoy a longer lifespan in regions with mild winters. It grows between 30 and
Humidity : semi-arid, semi- 60 cm high, with a spread of up to 40 cm. The round leaves are highly aromatic. Normally, the
Propagation :
humid
direct sowing,
leaves are fresh green, but there is a variety with a very attractive dark-red to purplish-red foliage
sowing and named Ocimum basilicum ‘Purpurascens’. The flower appears in summer in spikes with white
pricking out
Maintenance : moderate
0.5–0.8 cm single flowers. The flowers of ‘Purpurascens’ are a light violet. Basil prefers a moist
soil with low salinity, but likes sunny locations with low air humidity. Basil is a very tasty herb,
CONDITIONS but its use can also be recommended in landscape design for private parks and gardens, container
Urban climate :
Dessication :
resistant
resistant
planting and public open spaces. As grouped or massed planting, groundcover, or as a hedge or
Stagnant water : vulnerable
undergrowth, it will have a pleasing visual appeal. Readily growing from seed, it is often found
Irrigation : medium growing on footpaths near restaurants in many parts of Arriyadh: in Addiriyyah, it can be seen
Salinity/ppm : low (700 ppm) in several places as spontaneous vegetation in the undergrowth of shrubs. This would indicate
Hardiness : +3°C
that it could be used more often in the planting of public open spaces. Propagation is by direct
SHAPE seeding, sowing, and pricking. The level of maintenance depends on the location, which means
Type : annual, biennial,
perennial
that only low maintenance is necessary under optimal conditions. Regularly pruning promotes
Height : 0.3 m-0.6 m a dense growth.
Spread : 0.2 m-0.4 m
Foliage : deciduous

FLOWER
Colour : white, pastel
yellow
Size : 0.5 cm - 0.8 cm
Period : June - August
Smell : aroma, strong,
leaf, spicy

FRUIT
Type of fruit : nutlet
Fruit size : 0.1 cm
Toxicity : edible, leaf

215
 Olea europaea, Oleaceae

Olive, zaytoun

Olea europea is known in English as the Olive tree, and in Arabic zaytoun. Its distribution GENERAL
extends from the Mediterranean to southeast Africa and southwest Asia. The tree can grow to Origin : Mediterranean
between 6 and 9 metres high with a spread of 6 to 8 metres. Often, the Olive tree features a very Humidity : semi-arid, semi-
humid, very
picturesque growth with a dense crown. The leaves are entire and lanceolate, with the typical humid
olive green on the top and silvery-green underneath. The flowers are unimpressive, but the fruits Propagation : cuttings, grafting

are famous and popular in all regions where olive trees grow. Maintenance is minimal; regular Maintenance : moderate

pruning will densify the crown. Olives do not like stagnant water, but otherwise have no special CONDITIONS
soil requirements. Frost-tolerant to –10°C, the trees are prone to attack by scale insects and crown Urban climate : resistant

gall; verticillium wilt and black scale can also become problems. It is a shelter plant, and can be Dessication : resistant
Stagnant water : vulnerable
used in open public spaces, park planting and urban areas. Olives can also be grown in small Irrigation : low
managed roof gardens or containers. For landscape design, however, it should be recognised that Salinity/ppm : very high (7000
ppm)
the Olive is a fruit tree, i.e. its use is inadvisable next to pedestrian areas. Olives make appealing Hardiness : -9°C
trees as specimens, grouped planting or linear planting. They will lend a natural Mediterranean
garden flair to steppe gardens. Propagation is by cuttings and grafting. To ensure optimal deve- SHAPE

lopment of the tree, it is necessary to provide a minimum of air humidity. Olive tree plantations Type
Height
:
:
tree
6 m-9 m
have been successful in Arriyadh, and can now be seen quite often. Spread : 6 m-8 m
Foliage : evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : white, yellow
Size : 0.8 cm
Period : May - June
Smell : aroma, strong,
sweet

FRUIT
Type of fruit : drupe(fleshy/
juicy)
Fruit size : 3 cm - 4 cm

216
 Opuntia ficus-indica, Cactaceae

Indian Fig, Prickly Pear, sabbar

GENERAL
Although its species name means ‘Indian Fig’, this cactus is much better known as Prickly Pear,
Origin : Mediterranean,
or sabbar in Arabic. It may grow like a shrub. It consists of paddle-shaped segments which even-
sub-tropical,
tropical
tually become round, forming a solid branch. Both trunk and branches do not build solid wood,
Vigour : normal growth but rather a spongy tissue which is robust enough to bear the heavy, fleshy crown. Its origin is
Humidity :
rate
extremely arid,
allegedly Mexico. It is one of the few New World cacti growing in Saudi Arabia, and is often seen
very arid, semi- on farms in Arriyadh. In spring, beautiful, bright-yellow flowers appear at the upper edges of the
arid
Propagation : sowing and
segments. After fertilisation by numerous kinds of insects, the base becomes swollen to develop
pricking out, into a delicious-tasting, egg-shaped fruit. Green at first, this turns yellow, orange and finally deep
cuttings
Maintenance : low
purple when fully ripe. The segments may or may not feature the thorns that so many cacti are
known for. Thorny varieties are set around fields as a living fence, while bare cultivars are grown
CONDITIONS for their fruit as hedges or specimens. They are often planted ornamentally as an impenetrable
Urban climate : resistant
Dessication : resistant
ground cover. All Prickly Pear fruits are armed with tiny, apparently harmless areoles that bear
Stagnant water : vulnerable bristly glochids. These penetrate human skin instantly causing a nasty itching for hours or days,
Irrigation : low since they are difficult to remove. Segments easily root if buried to one third in well-drained soil.
Salinity/ppm
Hardiness
:
:
high (5000 ppm)
-6°C
Apart from the water permeability, the soil can have any properties; and it can have some salinity.
There are no problems with heat, or full or even reflected sun.
SHAPE
Type : cacti, succulents
Height : 3 m-5 m
Spread : 3 m-4 m
Foliage : evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : yellow
Size : 6 cm - 10 cm
Period : April - April

FRUIT
Type of fruit : berry
Fruit size : 6 cm - 8 cm
Toxicity : edible, fruit

217
 Osteospermum fruticosum, Asteraceae

African Daisy, Shrubby Daisybush

The African Daisy is a fast-growing groundcover for large open spaces and on slopes. It grows in GENERAL
full sun, thrives with moderate watering, but takes some drought; most types of soil are accepta- Origin : Mediterranean,
ble, and the plant is wind-resistant. Pests and diseases are rare, which means this South African sub-tropical
Vigour : fairly fast
plant is ideal for low-maintenance uses. Too much fertiliser results in leggy, tender stems that growing
grow criss-cross while extreme heat in Arriyadh can cause the plant’s growth to stagnate. The Humidity : very arid, semi-
arid, semi-humid,
foliage is spoon-shaped, bright green and some 5 cm in length. In blossom for most of the year, it very humid,
extremely humid
is topped by scores of spectacular daisy flowers some 8 cm across. The outer ring is either white Propagation : sowing and
or lavender with a violet centre of fertile inflorescences. Spent flowers may be discarded to en- pricking out,
layer, cuttings
courage the development of new buds. The plant grows 20 to 30 cm high, but spreads readily by Maintenance : moderate
creeping stems that become rooted wherever they touch soil. It is therefore very easy to propagate
by cuttings or separating layers. African Daisies look well cascading over edges, in containers CONDITIONS
Urban climate : resistant
or in beddings. They suit rock gardens and like border planting alike, and since they need little Dessication : resistant
attention they may be grown in both private gardens and public parks. In colder climates, they Stagnant water : vulnerable
are grown annually or as pot plants, since they flower abundantly even when young. Despite its Irrigation : medium

vigorous growth the plant does not escape from its designated site. In the immediate neighbour- Salinity/ppm : moderate (2000
ppm)
hood, slow-growing perennials or small shrubs that could be overgrown should be avoided. Hardiness : 0°C

SHAPE
Type : perennial
Height : 0.2 m-0.3 m
Spread : 1 m-2 m
Foliage : evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : white, lilac, dark
violet
Size : 5 cm - 8 cm
Period : January -
December

FRUIT
Type of fruit : achene
Fruit size : 0.8 cm

218
 Pandanus sanderi, Pandanaceae

Screw Pine

GENERAL
Native to Polynesia, the variegated Screw Pine is a slow-growing, suckering shrub up to 6 metres
Origin : tropical
high, with thick aerial roots and distinctive green- and yellow-striped leaves. There are many
Vigour : slow-growing species of the genus: P. utilis and P. veitchii are also successful in Arriyadh. This species has few
Humidity : semi-arid, semi-
humid, very
branches and rarely flowers: it produces rosettes of arching, linear, spiny yellow leaves, up to 1
humid metre long, with green margins, when mature. Male and female flowers lack petals and are borne
Propagation
Maintenance
:
:
cuttings
low
on separate plants. Female flowers resemble small, red-coloured pineapples when fertilised. The
Screw Pine has a high drought tolerance, but grows well in moist, sandy, clayey, alkaline soils,
CONDITIONS even with high salinity. It does best with regular irrigation, minimal in winter, and fertilising
Urban climate : vulnerable
monthly from spring to summer. It is a very adaptable plant, although it prefers hot, dry condi-
Dessication : vulnerable
Stagnant water : vulnerable
tions; propagation is by cuttings, which root readily when placed directly in the soil. It is occa-
Irrigation : medium sionally infested by scale insects. Amongst the uses of Pandanus are the leaves used for weaving
Salinity/ppm : moderate (3000
ppm)
material for clothes, dyes collected from the roots and treatment of inflammation. A palm-like
Hardiness : +3°C tree, it makes a spectacular accent in garden landscapes, but requires sufficient space. It is also an
attractive screen when planted on the edge of a lake. Very little maintenance is necessary when
SHAPE
Type : shrub
planted in groups in a park.
Height : 4 m-6 m
Spread : 3 m-4 m
Foliage : evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : white
Size : 3 cm
Period : February - April
Smell : scented, flower

FRUIT
Type of fruit : berry
Fruit size : 20 cm
Toxicity : edible when
processed

219
 Parkinsonia aculeata, Caesalpiniaceae

Jerusalem Thorn, Mexican Palo Verde

Known as both the Mexican Palo Verde and the Jerusalem Thorn, this small, fast-growing tree is GENERAL
native to the southwestern United States and Mexico. It was one of the first ornamental trees to Origin : Mediterranean,
be introduced into Saudi Arabia. A rounded, graceful tree, usually with a multi-stemmed, green sub-tropical,
tropical
trunk, drooping branches and slender twigs, it grows up to 8 metres high and 5 metres wide. The Vigour : fast growing
foliage is short-lived under desert conditions, but when the trees become leafless, the petioles of Humidity : semi-arid, semi-
humid, very
the leaves remain like silky needles. They are bordered by two rows of 25–30 tiny oval leaflets; humid

during drought, the tree becomes deciduous. The branches have sharp spines 7–12 mm long. Propagation : sowing and
pricking out,
Sporadically blooming, loose clusters of fragrant, golden-yellow flowers with an orange-reddish cuttings

coloured throat, make a striking display in spring and are followed by slender bean pods up to Maintenance : moderate

15 cm long. P. aculeata prefers well-drained, sandy and alkaline, alluvial soils. In full sun, it will CONDITIONS
need watering until it becomes established. It is a very hardy tree, and tolerant of frost, wind, Urban climate : resistant

salinity and drought. Propagation is by seed. It is prone to attacks by red spider mites and mea- Dessication : resistant
Stagnant water : vulnerable
lybugs. Some countries have registered invasion problems: it is now a serious, widespread weed Irrigation : low
in Australia. Extremely attractive for landscape design, its graceful form has a residential scale Salinity/ppm : very high (9000
and provides filtered shade: it is also suitable as a street tree and for screening. Maintenance is Hardiness :
ppm)
-6°C
moderate: leaf litter will require removal. Pruning is necessary to create the desired shape.
SHAPE
Type : tree, shrub
Height : 5 m-10 m
Spread : 5 m-10 m
Foliage : semi-evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : pale yellow, deep
orange
Size : 1 cm - 2 cm
Period : April - May
Smell : scented,
moderate, flower,
sweet

FRUIT
Type of fruit : pod
Fruit size : 5 cm - 8 cm
Toxicity : inedible

220
 Paspalum vaginatum, Poaceae

Bahia Grass, Seashore Paspalum

GENERAL
Bahia Grass or Seashore Paspalum is a warm season turf grass, native to South America and
Origin : sub-tropical, growing in tropical areas throughout the world. It is a very useful ornamental lawn grass for
Vigour :
tropical
fairly fast
Arriyadh. Spreading by rhizomes, Paspalum grows even where drainage is a problem. The leaf
growing blades are flat, 5 mm wide and greyish-green. It requires full sun, sandy soils and ample irrigation,
Humidity : semi-arid, semi-
humid, very
even though it has some drought tolerance. Paspalum does not produce highly viable seed, and
humid therefore must be propagated vegetatively by stolons, rhizomes. It has the highest salt tolerance of
Propagation
Maintenance
:
:
layer
high
all turf grasses. Regular leaching will alleviate the buildup of salts in the soil. Research has indi-
cated that saline water could be used as a selected herbicide. Paspalum will also tolerate recycled
CONDITIONS effluent water, as opposed to Bermuda grass, which begins to suffer as salts build up. In lawns, it
Urban climate : resistant has high shoot densities and is therefore more competitive against weeds than other grasses. Few
Dessication : resistant
Stagnant water : vulnerable
pests attack Paspalum. It requires much less nitrogen than other warm season grasses and is to-
Irrigation : high lerant of a wide range of pH. Paspalum is shade- and drought-tolerant. It can be overseeded with
Salinity/ppm : very high (7500
ppm)
cool season grasses and mown very closely. Paspalum is a useful plant in sand dune stabilisation.
Hardiness : -6°C It is, however sensitive to cold temperatures, becoming dormant at 10°C. There are several varie-
ties of Paspalum vaginatum. Environmentally, Paspalum requires less water, fertiliser and pesti-
SHAPE
cides than other warm season turf grasses, but needs the usual maintenance procedures for lawns.
Type : grasses
Height : 0.05 m-0.6 m
Spread : 0.1 m-0.5 m
Foliage : evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : light brown
Size : 6 cm
Period : April - May

FRUIT
Type of fruit : caryopsis

221
 Pelargonium x hortorum, Geraniaceae

Garden Geranium, Zonal Geranium

Garden Geraniums are hybrids of various South African species. They are small, erect shrubs GENERAL
with herbaceous branches on a woody base reaching a maximum of about 90 cm in height and Origin : sub-tropical
some 70 cm in width, depending on the cultivars. Evergreen, fleshy foliage covers the plant dense- Humidity : semi-arid, semi-
humid
ly. The leaf edges are lobed, and the dull green upper side often shows a ring of purple or brown. Propagation : sowing and
Terminal clusters of striking flowers are available in a wide range of colours such as red, pink, lilac, pricking out,
cuttings
violet, orange and white. A single inflorescence usually consists of five petals, but double flowers Maintenance : high
have many more. Although the flowering climax is in spring, flowers may be seen all year round,
if spent clusters are cut off frequently both for a neat appearance and to induce the development CONDITIONS
Urban climate : resistant
of new buds. Garden Geraniums enjoy sunny locations, but will also do well in partial sun. The Dessication : vulnerable
soil should drain well and offer enough nutrients for the plant’s vigorous growth. The plant takes Stagnant water : vulnerable
some drought, but looks best if watered frequently. Light frosts are tolerated, but severe cold kills Irrigation : high
Salinity/ppm : moderate (2000
the entire plant. Pruning can be done at any time to replace the brittle stems by young shoots. ppm)
Cuttings can be taken both in spring and in autumn. Sowing is a year-round alternative. These Hardiness : 0°C

Geraniums are the ideal plants for pots, containers and beddings. They enhance mixed borders
SHAPE
with splendid colours and suit both public and private sites. Regularly seen throughout the year Type : perennial,
in Arriyadh, they are most prominent when they are planted for a winter colour display. sub-shrub
Height : 0.5 m-0.9 m
Spread : 0.5 m-1 m
Foliage : evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : pink
Period : March - June
Smell : scented, aroma,
leaf

FRUIT
Type of fruit : achene
Fruit size : 0.5 cm

222
 Pelargonium crispum, Geraniaceae

Lemon-Scented Geranium

GENERAL
In South Africa’s Cape Province, it is possible to find Lemon Geraniums growing wild in scrub
Origin : Mediterranean,
vegetation or light woodland. It is considered a sub-shrub for its herbaceous branches sprouting
sub-tropical from a woody base to some 90 cm in height. Nevertheless, these upright bushes are also grown as
Humidity : semi-humid, very
humid annual plants in pots or beddings for combining attractive pink flowers with a pleasant fragrance.
Propagation : sowing and
pricking out,
The crinkled foliage grows very dense so that plants are easily formed in any shape desired. The
cuttings specific name refers to the texture of its foliage, since crispum means curly. When touched, the
Maintenance : high glandular, evergreen leaves release a strong lemon scent. They are cordate in shape and fresh
CONDITIONS
green. In Arriyadh’s climate, where it makes a good garden plant, it should be protected from full
Urban climate : resistant sun and drying winds. Short dry periods are tolerated, but this species does better with frequent
Dessication : vulnerable watering in well-drained soil. To guarantee appropriate moisture and allow aeration at the same
Stagnant water :
Irrigation :
vulnerable
medium
time, the ground is best improved by adding compost and perlite. All-purpose fertiliser can be
Salinity/ppm : moderate (2000 applied frequently. Lemon Geraniums do not take frost, extreme heat is best endured in semi-
ppm) shade locations. Plants stressed by adverse growing conditions are sometimes infested by spider
Hardiness : 0°C
mites or mildew. Propagation by seed is started in late winter, while softwood cuttings may be
SHAPE planted in late summer. The main flowering period is spring to early summer. Some varieties have
Type : sub-shrub, shrub been selected with more showy flowers and another cultivar, ‘Variegatum’, features leaves with
Height : 0.4 m-1 m
Spread : 0.6 m-1.4 m
ivory margins.
Foliage : evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : soft lilac, soft
violet
Period : March - June
Smell : scented, leaf,
sweet

FRUIT
Type of fruit : achene
Fruit size : 0.5 cm

223
 Pelargonium graveolens, Geraniaceae

Rose Geranium

Rose Geranium is grown for its intensely scented leaves. It is an erect, branched bush growing GENERAL
to 1 metre high with equivalent width, originating from the Cape Province, South Africa. Its Origin : sub-tropical
hairy, fleshy stems become woody and brittle with age and are densely covered with evergreen, Humidity : semi-humid, very
humid, extremely
wrinkled foliage in fresh green. Coated in glandular hair, they instantly release a strong odour humid
of roses, hence its common name. Its fragrance is also the reason for the species’ name since, in Propagation : sowing and
pricking out,
Latin, graveolens means strong-smelling. They are used to manufacture geranium oil which is cuttings

far less expensive than true rose oil. The pink or white flowers are smaller and less showy than Maintenance : high

the floral display of its relative Garden Geranium. Nevertheless, they look attractive and enhance CONDITIONS
a mixed border from late winter to summer, with a peak in spring. Rose Geraniums are used Urban climate : resistant
to hot summers and mild winters without frost. They do best in semi-shade positions protected Dessication : vulnerable

from full sun in the early afternoon, and are an attractive addition to a garden in Arriyadh. The Stagnant water :
Irrigation :
vulnerable
high
soil should be moist all year round, but brief periods of drought are tolerated. The plants are best Salinity/ppm : moderate (2000
grouped close to walkways to facilitate occasional brushing by pedestrians. They grow well in ppm)
Hardiness : -3°C
pots and containers if drainage is adequate. Soils may range from acidic to alkaline, but should
not be compacted. Poor soils should be improved by compost, and some slow-release fertiliser SHAPE
every so often is welcome. Set amongst taller shrubs, this healthy plant makes an ideal filler. Type : annual, biennial,
perennial,
sub-shrub
Height : 0.3 m-0.9 m
Spread : 0.2 m-0.7 m
Foliage : evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : white, pink, red,
purple
Size : 4 cm
Period : January - May
Smell : scented, leaf,
flower

FRUIT
Type of fruit : achene
Fruit size : 0.5 cm

224
 Peltophorum pterocarpum, Caesalpiniaceae

Yellow Poinciana, Rusty Shieldbearer, Copper Pod

GENERAL
Bearing names such as Yellow Poinciana, Rusty Shieldbearer and Copper Pod, this is a showy,
Origin : tropical
flowering tree, native to tropical Asia and Australia, and introduced to the Arabian peninsula.
Vigour : fast growing Not often seen in Arriyadh, where it may lose its leaves during a long dry period, the leaves re-
Humidity : semi-arid, semi-
humid, very
appearing quickly with the flowers. It grows rapidly to 20 metres high and 10 metres wide, and
humid has an umbrella-like crown with fuzzy, rusty-red twigs. The rich green, bipinnate leaves are about
Propagation : sowing and
pricking out
60 cm long with oval leaflets. Bold, yellow, nocturnally fragrant flowers, with crinkled petals,
Maintenance : low each with a brown spot, are borne on spectacular, upright racemes about 45 cm long, blanketing
the tops of trees. Large bunches of the copper-coloured fruit, containing flattened, oblong seeds,
CONDITIONS
Urban climate : resistant
are attractive at first, but later look untidy because they remain on the tree for months. P. pte-
Dessication : vulnerable rocarpum requires light shade to full sun, and cannot tolerate heavy frost. It is very salt-tolerant,
Stagnant water : vulnerable preferring moist, well-drained, sandy soil. Being drought-resistant, irrigation requirements are
Irrigation : high
Salinity/ppm : moderate (3000
moderate. Propagation is by seed, which needs to be scarified. Yellow Poinciana is an excellent
ppm) shade, street tree and a specimen tree, if plenty of space is available. It needs regular pruning,
Hardiness : 0°C
when young, to keep the tree dense and in shape. Care should be taken not to plant it too close
SHAPE
to structures and hard paving, since the trees have shallow root systems. Generally pest- and
Type : tree disease-free, this is a low-maintenance tree, which may create a leaf litter problem, if not kept neat.
Height : 10 m-20 m
Spread : 6 m-10 m
Foliage : evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : bright yellow,
deep orange
Size : 15 cm - 45 cm
Period : June - August
Smell : scented, flower

FRUIT
Type of fruit : pod
Fruit size : 10 cm

225
 Pennisetum setaceum, Poaceae

Fountain Grass, halfah

Pennisetum setaceum is called by its common name Fountain Grass, while in Arabic it is often GENERAL
referred to as halfah. Its area of distribution ranges from northern Africa, to tropical Africa, the Origin : Mediterranean,
Arabian peninsula, the Middle East and southwest Asia. This perennial grass grows between 90 sub-tropical
Vigour : fairly fast
cm and 1.2 metres high, with a spread of up to 1.5 metres. The flowers arrive in early summer growing
as spikes up to 20 cm long. This grass is a very attractive ornamental plant that requires only Humidity : very arid, semi-
arid, semi-humid,
low maintenance. Occasionally, pruning will densify the clump and cause it to rejuvenate better. very humid

Propagation is recommended by seeds and through division. Fountain Grass can be used in open Propagation : sowing and
pricking out,
country, for hillside planting and as a slope or bank stabiliser. In urban planting design, it is well division

known in many locations in Arriyadh. In King Fahd Road, the Murabba Parks, Wadi Hanifah Maintenance : low

and also in many private gardens, Fountain Grass is a long-time favourite because it provides CONDITIONS
light and beautiful images as groundcover, linear planting and grouped or massed planting. Ano- Urban climate : resistant

ther variety, Pennisetum setaceum ‘Cupreum’, is not as hardy as the green variety, but just as Dessication : resistant
Stagnant water : vulnerable
attractive. Its leaves are dark or purple-red, and the flower spikelets are light pink. More sheltered Irrigation : low
situations such as the Diplomatic Quarter and the Tuwaiq Palace inner garden are good locations Salinity/ppm : very high (6000
for its use, where it is not so exposed to occasional frosts. Soil and irrigation requirements are Hardiness :
ppm)
-6°C
comparable to those of the main species, i.e. very low, but stagnant water is not well tolerated.
SHAPE
Type : grasses
Height : 0.9 m-1.2 m
Spread : 1.2 m-1.5 m
Foliage : evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : pastel white
Size : 15 cm - 20 cm
Period : June - September

FRUIT
Type of fruit : caryopsis
Fruit size : 0.3 cm

226
 Pentas lanceolata, Rubiaceae

Egyptian Star Cluster

GENERAL
Egyptian Stars is a tender, perennial herb or subshrub native to eastern Africa and the southern
Origin : tropical
Arabian peninsula, where plants are found in the wild on the edge of woodland and in scrub.
Vigour : normal growth Many varieties of Pentas have been bred, and they are suitable for garden planting in Arriyadh.
rate
Humidity : semi-humid, very
With an upright growth habit, this shrub will reach a height of 1 metre and a width of about half
humid, extremely
humid
this. It has quite hairy, dark-green, lanceolate, deeply veined leaves up to 8 cm long and showy
Propagation : sowing and
clusters of never-ending, red, white, lavender, purple, or pink, star-shaped flowers. Flowering
pricking out,
cuttings
begins in spring and continues until the autumn. Plants require a neutral, moderately fertile,
Maintenance : moderate well-drained soil that retains moisture well, and should be planted in light shade or sun, but
not in direct sun during the hottest part of the day. Irrigation and fertilising should be regular
CONDITIONS
Urban climate : vulnerable
throughout the growing season, and less in winter. Egyptian Stars is not frost-tolerant, and is
Dessication : vulnerable
sometimes planted as an annual and not a perennial; in a sheltered location in Arriyadh, however,
Stagnant water : vulnerable it may become a long-lived shrub. In hot weather, the plant grows fast and stays in bloom con-
Irrigation : high
stantly. Propagation is by cuttings and from seed. Prone to white fly, they are generally disease-
Salinity/ppm : low (1000 ppm)
Hardiness : 0°C
resistant. A neat compact plant can be maintained by pinching out the tips in spring: flowers are
self-dead-heading. These are attractive plants for both containers and the garden. The bright red
SHAPE variety in the ‘Graffiti’ series has a spectacular colour and is a great nectar source.
Type : sub-shrub, shrub
Height : 1 m-1.2 m
Spread : 0.5 m-0.9 m
Foliage : evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : white, pink, lilac,
red, purple
Size : 6 cm - 10 cm
Period : April - October

FRUIT
Type of fruit : capsule
Fruit size : 0.6 cm

227
 Petunia x atkinsiana, Solanaceae

Petunia

Petunia has no other common name. Its area of distribution is South America. This ornamental GENERAL
plant is popular as a winter bedding plant in Arriyadh. It is a prostrate annual which normally Origin : sub-tropical,
grows in tropical or sub-tropical areas. It reaches a height of 15 cm, but the many branches grow tropical
Humidity : semi-arid, semi-
usually to a length of 70 cm, creeping over the ground. The leaves are fresh green and they have humid
an entire and ovate shape. The attractive hornlike flowers are between 5 and 8 cm in size. They Propagation : sowing and
pricking out
are available in many different colours such as red, yellow and purple. All parts of the plant are Maintenance : moderate
slightly sticky. Petunias do not like stagnant water; their roots will start to rot, and they will start
to fail. Nevertheless, they need sufficient irrigation with a low salinity content. Petunias are pro- CONDITIONS
Urban climate : resistant
pagated by cuttings. This ornamental plant can withstand urban microclimates and temporary Dessication : vulnerable
desiccation. It will yield attractive plant arrangements in pedestrian precincts, container planting, Stagnant water : vulnerable
urban areas, public open spaces and street planting, as well as in parks or private gardens. This Irrigation : high
Salinity/ppm : low (700 ppm)
plant can be used as edging plant, for linear planting, as a groundcover or for grouped or massed Hardiness : +3°C
planting.
SHAPE
Type : annual
Height : 0.15 m-0.25 m
Spread : 0.2 m-0.8 m
Foliage : evergreen,
evergreen,
evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : yellow, red,
purple, pink,
violet, blue,
white, secondary:
yellow
Size : 5 cm - 8 cm
Period : April - November

FRUIT
Type of fruit : capsule
Fruit size : 1 cm

228
 Phoenix canariensis, Arecaceae

Canary Island Date Palm

GENERAL
The Canary Island Date Palm, native to the Canary Islands, is a relative of Phoenix dactylifera,
Origin : Mediterranean
the true date palm. The difference between the two is easily recognized by Canary Island Date
Vigour : normal growth Palm’s crown of dark green fronds (P. dactylifera has blue-green fronds) and the pineapple shape
rate
Humidity : semi-arid,
of the short, thick trunk (P. dactylifera is tall and straight). P. canariensis is widely planted as an
semi-humid,
semi-humid, very
ornamental plant, particularly in areas with a Mediterranean climate. It is often seen in Arriyadh,
humid where the difference goes unnoticed, except by botanists. It is less frost- and drought-tolerant
Propagation : sowing and
pricking out
than P. dactylifera. It is a large-spreading, densely branched palm, up to 18 metres tall and 15 m
Maintenance : moderate wide. The glossy green leaves are pinnate, with sharp spines along the lower part of the stem. Fruit
is produced on female palms as an oval, yellow to orange drupe containing a single seed, and
CONDITIONS
Urban climate : resistant
is of poor quality. A slow-growing tree requiring full sun, it is frost-tolerant to –7°C for only a
Dessication : resistant
short period. P. canariensis prefers a rich, moist, alluvial, sandy soil: salinity tolerance is medium.
Stagnant water : vulnerable Irrigation requirements are moderate. Propagation is by seed. Many pests attack this palm: giant
Irrigation : medium
palm borer weevils, leaf skeletonisers and scale. It is also susceptible to lethal yellowing, fusarium
Salinity/ppm : high (5000 ppm)
Hardiness : -6°C
and ganoderma fungal diseases. The high maintenance of this palm involves trimming to enhan-
ce its appearance: they are often ‘pineappled’ to stop fronds from touching cars or pedestrians, as
SHAPE well as clearing fruit litter. It is best planted along roads and in parks.
Type : palms
Height : 6 m-18 m
Spread : 7 m-15 m
Foliage : evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : bright yellow
Size : 10 cm - 100 cm
Period : February - June

FRUIT
Type of fruit : drupe(fleshy/
juicy)
Fruit size : 1.5 cm - 2.3 cm
Toxicity : inedible, fruit

229
 Phoenix dactylifera, Arecaceae

Date Palm, nakheel al balah

The Date Palm is native to the Kingdom and is widely cultivated in groves throughout the country. GENERAL
It grows slowly to a height of 25 metres and a spread of 12 metres. It may take 15 years to attain 3 Origin : Mediterranean,
sub-tropical,
metres. The stiff, sharp-pointed, pinnate leaves are over 3 metres long. The length and shape of the tropical
leaves vary according to the cultivars. A tree can form 10–20 leaves a year, depending on the cultivar Vigour : slow-growing

and agricultural practices. The floral buds in the axils of the leaves bring forth spikes of small, yel- Humidity : very arid, semi-
arid, semi-humid,
lowish flowers from late February to May. Date Palms are naturally wind-pollinated, but on farms very humid
they are manually pollinated by skilled labourers; a male tree produces enough pollen to pollinate Propagation : sowing and
pricking out,
up to 50 female trees. When pollinated, female trees produce large pendulous clusters of cylindrical division,
orange to brown fruits, which stand out from the base of the fronds. Dates when unripe, they range Maintenance :
Meristem culture
high
from red to bright yellow in colour. The Date Palm requires full sun, but will tolerate shade. Trees are
frost-resistant. Being drought-tolerant, regular irrigation is necessary for good fruits, and the plants CONDITIONS

appreciate deep watering in summer. In winter, a tree will need only half of the summer irrigation Urban climate : resistant
Dessication : resistant
rate. The tree prefers well-drained, deep, sandy loams and tolerates salinity. It is best planted in late Stagnant water : vulnerable
spring or summer. Date Palms require good and regular fertilising. Tree hole lancing with a mixture Irrigation : high
of sand and fertiliser in spring is also very effective. Propagation is by seed or best from suckers. Date Salinity/ppm : very high (20000
Palms are affected by many pests, which attack the trunk and growing points. The most dangerous Hardiness :
ppm)
-9°C
is the Red palm weevil (Rhynchophorus ferrugineus), which is difficult to detect in the early stages
of infestation. The initial signs are holes and the oozing of a brown viscous liquid on the trunk or SHAPE

in the crown. Eventually, the entire crown of the tree will wither and begin to fall off. This is now a Type
Height
:
:
palms
25 m-45 m
worldwide problem. Weak or transplanted large specimens seem to be the main victims. Other pests Spread : 7 m-12 m
are leaf skeletonisers and scale insects. Date palms require intensive maintenance and cultivation. Foliage : evergreen
Date Palms are easily transplanted to new locations and there are specific procedures for this. The FLOWER
Date Palm is a magnificent, all-round tree, spectacular in culture on farms, and it lends itself splen- Colour : yellow, green
didly to landscape design in Arriyadh. It makes a beautiful, almost ceremonial roadside tree. Seen Size : 10 cm - 100 cm
on a skyline, it produces an oasis effect. Too large for most small gardens, it is an excellent park tree, Period : February - May

as a specimen or background planting or for shade on pathways. It is also effective when planted FRUIT
near tall buildings. Type of fruit : drupe(fleshy/
juicy)
Fruit size : 2.5 cm - 7.5 cm
Toxicity : produced for
food, edible, fruit

230
231
 Phoenix roebelenii, Arecaceae

Pigmy Date Palm

The Pygmy Date Palm, native to southeast Asia, is one of the most commonly used kinds of dwarf GENERAL
palms. In Arriyadh, it is suitable for small gardens and courtyards, but needs some shade from Origin : sub-tropical,
the sun. A very long-lived, slow-growing slender tree up to 3 metres tall, this palm likes partial tropical
Vigour : slow-growing
shade to full sun; morning sun is recommended. It has a dense crown of leaves that are 60–120 cm Humidity : semi-humid, very
long, and pinnate with some 100 leaflets. Each leaflet is 15–25 cm long and 1 cm across, slightly humid, extremely
humid
drooping, and bright green in colour with scurfy pubescence below; the thorns at the base of the Propagation : sowing and
frond are very sharp. The flowers are small and yellowish: the fruit is a 1-cm drupe, resembling pricking out,
division
a small, thin-fleshed date. In nature, the trees are usually single-trunked, in cultivation multiple Maintenance : moderate
trunks are often produced. Very frost-tolerant for short periods of time, they are also drought-
CONDITIONS
and saltwater-tolerant. They like a fertile, well-drained soil with moderate moisture levels and Urban climate : vulnerable
respond well to regular applications of fertiliser. The trees adapt to most soils and tolerate water- Dessication : vulnerable
logging, clay, loam or sandy soils, low in nutrients. Regular irrigation is required. Propagation Stagnant water : resistant

is by seed or division. The Pygmy Date Palm is generally pest- and disease-free. It requires little Irrigation : medium
Salinity/ppm : moderate (1800
pruning to develop a strong structure; old and dead fronds should be trimmed below the spines. ppm)
Graceful in appearance, P. roebelenii is a popular ornamental plant which looks well by poolsides, Hardiness : -3°C

on patios, in shopping malls and office entrances, and is a perfect container plant. SHAPE
Type : palms
Height : 2 m-5 m
Spread : 3 m-4 m
Foliage : evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : pale yellow
Size : 40 cm
Period : March - March

FRUIT
Type of fruit : drupe (leathery/
fibrous)
Fruit size : 1.2 cm
Toxicity : inedible, fruit

232
 Phragmites australis, Poaceae

Reed, aqraban hajna, ghab

GENERAL
The common name for this plant is Reed Grass, or in Arabic, ghab. Its area of distribution ranges
Origin : temperate,
from Alaska and Australia to the Balkans. Phragmites is a perennial grass which is both heat-
arid, sub-arctic,
sub-Mediterranean,
and frost-tolerant. It grows to a height of between 90 cm and 2.5 metres. It is a fast-growing grass
Mediterranean, with strong rhizomes. It can be invasive in situations where all conditions are optimal for its
sub-tropical
Vigour : fast growing
development. It can also withstand high salinity. The flowers appear as impressive florets between
Humidity : semi-arid, semi- 20 and 35 cm in size. The spike has a violet-magenta colour. The inflorescence appears in early
humid
Propagation : division, direct
September and remains on the plant for a long time, keeping the grass attractive throughout the
sowing winter. Reed Grass grows close to water edges, on shorelines. Phragmites is well known in the
Maintenance : high
Wadi Hanifah and the Al Hair Lakes. Because it is such a strong plant, its use is not advisable for
CONDITIONS
small ponds. For natural water features such as the Al Hair Lakes, however, it is a valuable plant
Urban climate : resistant species because of its water-cleansing properties. It helps to maintain the natural water ecosystem
Dessication : resistant in equilibrium. Reed Grass is a phytoremediation or water-treatment plant, and provides a habitat
Stagnant water : resistant
Irrigation : high
for many different varieties of wildlife. Accordingly, Phragmites is a useful plant for bank stabili-
Salinity/ppm : very high (20000 sation, open country and environmental consolidation. It can also be used as screen. It becomes
Hardiness :
ppm)
-25°C, heat
a dominant plant very quickly. Recommended propagation measures are by runners, division
tolerant and direct sowing. Maintenance is recommended through periodically pruning where necessary.
SHAPE
Type : grasses
Height : 0.9 m-2.5 m
Spread : 1 m-3 m
Foliage : deciduous

FLOWER
Colour : violet, magenta,
black, white
Size : 25 cm
Period : September -
October

FRUIT
Type of fruit : caryopsis
Fruit size : 1 cm

233
 Pinus halepensis, Pinaceae

Aleppo Pine

The Aleppo Pine is native to the Mediterranean region; its range extends into the Middle East. GENERAL
Pine trees are not generally seen in Arriyadh, because of the high temperatures and alkaline Origin : sub-Mediterranean,
soils; however, P. halepensis is tolerant of such conditions and is occasionally seen in protected Mediterranean,
sub-tropical
locations. P. eldarica is another pine which would grow in Arriyadh. An evergreen, moderate- to Vigour : fast growing
fast-growing tree, up to 20 metres high and 6 metres wide and a large trunk of up to 1 metre di- Humidity : semi-arid, semi-
humid
ameter, its bark is thick, fissured and reddish in colour. When young, its growth is pyramidal; at Propagation : sowing and
maturity, it has an open, irregular, rounded crown with huge lateral branches. The characteristic, pricking out
Maintenance : low
yellowish-green, needle-like leaves are very slender, 10 cm long and produced in pairs. The flowers
are inconspicuous in brown bundles at the end of the branches. The green cones are narrow, oval, CONDITIONS
up to 12 cm long and open slowly, ripening to glossy red-brown. P. halepensis is frost-tender when Urban climate : vulnerable

young, but mature trees withstand severe frosts. It prefers full sun and reflected heat; tolerating Dessication
Stagnant water :
: vulnerable
vulnerable
partial shade, when young, it will grow in poor soils, except wet types. Most drought-tolerant in Irrigation : low
good soil, it does best with irrigation, 2–3 times per month. Propagation is by seed, and plants Salinity/ppm : moderate (3000
ppm)
require little feeding. Prone to mites and aphids, maintenance is low; pruning is seldom required Hardiness : -12°C
after establishment. Aleppo Pine is used in afforestation in the Middle East. It is a popular orna-
mental tree for planting in large private gardens, and in parks in hot dry areas. SHAPE
Type : tree
Height : 10 m-20 m
Spread : 7 m-15 m
Foliage : evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : pastel yellow
Size : 1 cm
Period : March - April
Smell : scented, aroma,
gives freely of its
scent, leaf, spicy

FRUIT
Type of fruit : cones
Fruit size : 10 cm - 15 cm

234
 Pithecellobium dulce, Fabaceae

Madras Thorn, Manila Tamarind, Monkeypod, lawz hindi

GENERAL
Pithecellobium dulce is called by its common name Madras Thorn, or in Arabic lawz hindi. It
Origin : sub-tropical,
originally comes from Mexico, Florida and southeast Asia. Pithecellobium dulce is a tree growing
tropical up to 8 metres high with a spread of about 5 metres. The leaves are green and entire, and bipinna-
Humidity : semi-arid, semi-
humid tely arranged. The flower size is about 12 cm and the colour is greenish-white with a good flavour.
Propagation : sowing and
pricking out,
After flowering, aromatic pods appear with an edible sweet pulp. The tree will be propagated by
direct sowing direct seeding. P. dulce is resistant to urban microclimates and drought. It needs medium irriga-
Maintenance : moderate tion and withstands a medium salinity content in irrigation water. In landscape design, the tree is
CONDITIONS
very useful as a screen or plant providing shelter. Urban areas, public open spaces, park planting
Urban climate : resistant and street planting are also areas where this tree may be used. The tree is effective as a specimen,
Dessication : resistant in grouped planting, in avenues and as linear planting. In Arriyadh, it is planted in many streets
Stagnant water :
Irrigation :
vulnerable
medium
and other locations, but the median of King Fahd Road is one of the harshest locations possible
Salinity/ppm : very high (9000 that can be considered for the survival of a plant, where it is still standing after more than 17 ye-
ppm)
ars. This makes Pithecellobium a very valuable plant for urban design in Arriyadh, because of its
Hardiness : -3°C
low requirements, ability to adapt to unfavourable situations and the wide range of possible uses.
SHAPE In Addiriyyah, it has been planted as a high-trunked specimen along roads, with good results.
Type : tree
Height : 8m
Spread : 5m
Foliage : evergreen, semi-
evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : green, white
Size : 12 cm
Period : April - May

FRUIT
Type of fruit : pod
Fruit size : 18 cm
Toxicity : edible

235
 Pittosporum tobira, Pittosporaceae

Mock Orange

Pittosporum tobira is also known as Mock Orange. The shrub is native to central China, Japan GENERAL
and Korea. It prefers a Mediterranean to subtropical climate. It grows to a height of between 2 Origin : Mediterranean,
and 5 metres, with a spread of up to 4 metres. The shrub is usually regularly rounded in shape, sub-tropical
Vigour : fairly fast
and the foliage is evergreen. The leaves are dark green on top and light green underneath. The leaf growing
shape is convex-obovate and entire, and the leaves are arranged alternately. The flowers are white Humidity : semi-humid, very
humid, extremely
or pale yellow, with a pleasant fragrance. The fruits are pale olive-green round capsules with a humid

size of 1 cm. Maintenance requirements are minimal; occasionally, pruning will lead to a denser Propagation : sowing and
pricking out,
growth. Propagation is by sowing and pricking, by cuttings or through self-seeding. Mock Oran- cuttings

ge does not like stagnant water; however, it needs medium irrigation with a low salinity content. Maintenance : moderate

Like all evergreen plants which grow in Mediterranean climates, P. tobira loves a microclimate CONDITIONS
with sufficient air humidity. Accordingly, it is vulnerable to desiccation. It is, however, frost- Urban climate : vulnerable

tolerant. This bird- and bee-attracting plant will provide shelter and screens in parks or private Dessication : vulnerable
Stagnant water : vulnerable
sheltered gardens. Pittosporum can be pruned as a topiary, and is useful in pots. Considered Irrigation : medium
should be the fruit drop which is maybe not desired next to pathways. The shrub will be a recom- Salinity/ppm : moderate (2000
mended as dominant plant or as grouped planting and also as a flowering hedge. Occasionally Hardiness :
ppm)
-12°C
seen in Arriyadh, in the Diplomatic Quarter for example, P. tobira often shows signs of sunburn
and chlorosis. SHAPE
Type : shrub
Height : 2 m-5 m
Spread : 2 m-4 m
Foliage : evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : white, pale
yellow
Size : 1.5 cm - 2.5 cm
Period : March - May
Smell : scented, strong,
gives freely of its
scent

FRUIT
Type of fruit : capsule
Fruit size : 1 cm - 1.2 cm

236
 Plectranthus scutellarioides, Lamiaceae

Painted Nettle

GENERAL
The Painted Nettle is one of the most popular plants for interior greening, and is widely used
Origin : sub-tropical, outdoors where its conditions are met. They are tender perennials from southeast Asia found in
tropical shady, humid environments. If grown as bedding plants, they create masses of multi-coloured fo-
Vigour : fairly fast
growing liage to a height of about 30 cm. They are more valued when planted in mixed borders, where they
Humidity : very humid,
extremely humid
grow twice as high to form a round, bushy eye-catcher. The variegation is outstanding, in shades
Propagation : sowing and of green, yellow, scarlet, red, pink and ivory. Terminal flower spikes feature azure florets that are
pricking out,
cuttings
usually pinched out, since the foliage is this plant’s main, spectacular attraction. In Arriyadh’s
Maintenance : high winters, Painted Nettles take full sun, but during the summer they are best sheltered, especially
during the afternoons. Frost instantly kills this plant, and strong winds twist the leaves or entire
CONDITIONS
Urban climate : vulnerable
branches. It appreciates fertile soil with ample water, but without waterlogging. It is very easy to
Dessication : vulnerable grow in pots and containers. The easiest method of propagation is by placing cuttings in water or
Stagnant water : vulnerable planting them in a mixture of peat, compost and sand with some cover to reduce transpiration.
Irrigation
Salinity/ppm
:
:
high
low (700 ppm)
Sowing is an alternative in order to pick one of many colourful varieties, or to achieve random
Hardiness : +3°C
forms. They respond well to fertilising and do best with occasional pruning to rejuvenate the
stems. Frequent pinching is recommended to form a denser habit. Their moderate to high mainte-
SHAPE nance requirements limit the use of Painted Nettles to well-kept gardens and pedestrian precincts.
Type : annual, biennial,
perennial
Height : 0.2 m-0.5 m
Spread : 0.3 m-0.6 m
Foliage : evergreen

FLOWER
Colour : pale blue
Size : 12 cm
Period : July - August

FRUIT
Type of fruit : nutlet
Fruit size : 0.3 cm
Toxicity : inedible

237