Ghaf seeds (Prosopis cineraria)

Common name: Gulf Prosopis Scientific name: Prosopis cineraria Other names: Ghaf, Ashy Ghaf A type of plant belonging to the Ghaf genus from the leguminous family. Gulf Ghaf trees are characterized by easy propagation, rapid growth, and adaptation to the surrounding environmental conditions. They are found in plains and sandy dunes. Their roots deepen into the soil for long distances, estimated by specialists to reach up to 50 meters in some types of these trees, and their height can reach 28 meters. • Flower of the Gulf Ghaf shrub: The flowers of the Ghaf plant are small, yellow, hanging, and have long spikes reaching up to 25 cm. • Fruit and seeds of the Gulf Ghaf shrub: Its fruits are pod-like and thick, with up to 12 pods, containing medium-sized brown seeds inside. • Growing season of the Gulf Ghaf shrub: The planting time is May and June, and it can also be cultivated throughout the year in agricultural reserves and enclosed or plastic places where temperature can be controlled, and sunlight or adequate lighting for the plant is available. • Suitable climate and soil for the Gulf Ghaf shrub: It withstands harsh drought and heat conditions, is unaffected by direct scorching sunlight, and is resistant to strong winds. It grows in fertile, well-drained, and ventilated lands. • Method of cultivating the Gulf Ghaf shrub: It propagates through seeds, preferably soaked in water before planting, and grows quickly. • Its benefits and uses: The Ghaf tree has some medicinal uses. Its pods and wood are valuable for fuel and various industries. The different types of Ghaf trees are highly valued for their grazing and fodder qualities for animals. All animals love the pods of Ghaf trees and eat them, and some can survive solely on them for long periods. Experts agree that these trees are the most suitable and appropriate for afforestation of deserts to stabilize moving sand dunes and establish windbreaks with green protective belts. They are suitable for planting along streets, roads, and public parks, enhancing their aesthetic appeal and providing lush shade in summer. • Original habitat of the Gulf Ghaf shrub: The Gulf Ghaf tree grows in the eastern Arabian Peninsula, with many found in the United Arab Emirates and Oman. Due to the importance of this tree environmentally, special reserves have been established for it.