Seeds of the Mahleb herb

Common name: Al-Mahleb Scientific name: Cerasus mahaleb Also called: Wild cherry Original habitat of the Al-Mahleb plant: It is believed that the original habitat of the Mahleb is Central and Southwestern Asia; in the Caucasus Mountains and along the Caspian Sea coast. Description of the Mahleb plant: The Mahleb is a large deciduous fruit tree, with a dense, spherical crown, reaching a height of about 15 meters. Its branches are slightly spreading, dark brown in color. The leaves are serrated, ovate, slightly pointed at the top, about 5-7 cm long, with a shiny light green upper surface, and a pale underside. The small fruits are about 1 cm in diameter, semi-ripe, changing color from yellow to red then black when ripe, not suitable for fresh consumption. The seed is oval-shaped, woody, with a shell surrounding the embryo and kernel. Description of the Mahleb flower: The floral buds are borne laterally on the fruiting branches, singly or grouped in flower clusters, and they bloom before the leaves appear. The floral bud, when opening, produces 3-5 bisexual, monoecious flowers, white in color. Uses and benefits of the Mahleb plant: The fruits of the Mahleb are not eaten fresh due to their astringent bitter taste. The ground seeds are used in making sweets, giving them a desirable flavor, aroma, and taste. A liquid is distilled from the leaves and fruits, used as a perfume in soap making and some pharmaceutical preparations. It relieves back pain and helps treat kidney stones. It can be prepared as a drink with honey added. Its hard wood and fragrant aroma are used in making smoking pipes, reeds, and tools for agriculture. Suitable climate for the Mahleb plant: It grows in sunny parts of forests. It is resistant to winter frost, with dormant buds tolerating temperatures down to -24°C, but it fears spring frost. It prefers direct sunlight and humidity. It withstands wind and cold. Suitable soil for the Mahleb plant: It grows in various fertile, well-drained, and aerated soils. It grows in high areas up to 1500 meters above sea level, on mountain slopes, and river valleys. It tolerates soil dryness and is compatible with calcareous soils. Propagation method of the Mahleb plant: By seeds and cuttings. Planting time for the Mahleb plant: Seeds are planted in autumn and spring. Method of planting the Mahleb plant: Seeds are planted at a depth of 2.5 centimeters in the soil. The seeds are placed in a plastic container containing a mixture of soil, clay, and fertilizer. Water regularly, especially in summer. It grows after a few weeks. Fertilization method for the Mahleb plant: Organic fertilizer is usually used as the main fertilizer. When applying fertilizer, dig a circular trench around the outer edge of the tree crown, 15 inches deep and 11 inches wide. Spread the fertilizer evenly throughout the trench, then cover with soil. Fertilizer should be used twice a year: once before flowering to nourish the flowers, and again when the fruits grow to provide nutrients for fruit development and increase yield.