Donkey's ear - Ox tongue - Salvia spinosa

Donkey ear (Salvia spinosa) is an annual to biennial herbaceous plant of the mint family (Lamiaceae), a desert and semi-desert wild plant, characterized by its aromatic leaves, colorful flowers and its ability to withstand drought.



General Description



It grows as an upright, branching herbaceous plant, and usually reaches a height of about 20–60 cm. The stems grow from the base of the plant and branch out into several branches, and it often appears during the growing season after moisture is available.



Papers



Its leaves are simple and opposite, green to gray-green, ovate to lanceolate, and may be rough or covered with fine hairs. They have an aromatic scent when rubbed.



flowers



It produces tubular or labial flowers, which appear in rings or clusters on the flower stalks. They are usually purple to blue-violet in color, and may have white or pink hues depending on the plant.



Fruits and seeds



It produces four small, dry fruits inside the calyx, a characteristic feature of the mint family (Lamiaceae). The fruits turn brown when ripe, and the seeds are released to regenerate the plant.



Endurance and suitability



It tolerates drought and heat well, and grows in sandy, gravelly, and light clay soils, as well as in plains, valleys, and open areas. It benefits from seasonal rainfall for growth, flowering, and seed production.



Uses



It has ecological importance as a fragrant wild plant, and its flowers provide a source of nectar and seeds for some insects and pollinators. Some species of the genus Salvia are traditionally used in folk medicine and perfumery, but this species should not be used medicinally without first confirming the dosage and safety.



natural spread



Salvia spinosa is widespread in parts of the Middle East, North Africa and the Mediterranean region, and is associated with dry and semi-dry environments, plains, rocky and sandy areas.



Preservation status



Salvia spinosa is not known to be globally threatened, but its local populations may be affected by habitat degradation, grazing and human activities.