Haza - Ducrosia flabellifolia

Shoe tag – Ducrosia flabellifolia



The sandalwood (Ducrosia flabellifolia) is a perennial herb belonging to the Apiaceae family. It grows naturally in dry, rocky environments and is considered a rare wild plant in Saudi Arabia. It is characterized by its fan-shaped leaves and distinctive, pungent aroma, and thrives in desert areas and rocky locations.



General Description



It grows as a perennial herb branching from the base, reaching a height of about 35 cm. It is characterized by broad, flat leaves with a distinct fan shape, and it also has a distinctive aroma resulting from the volatile oils present in its green parts.



Papers



Its leaves are petiolate, broad, and flat, with a fan-like shape, and are divided into three main lobes which are further subdivided into smaller parts. The shape of the leaves is one of the most distinctive characteristics of the plant.



flowers



It produces small yellow flowers that are clustered in numerous umbel-shaped inflorescences. It usually begins to flower at the beginning of May, and the inflorescences appear above the vegetative parts of the plant during the flowering season.



Fruits and seeds



It produces elongated fruits, about 0.7 cm long, containing seeds which are the plant's means of sexual reproduction. The fruits are distinguished by their elongated shape compared to the small size of the plant.



Endurance and suitability



The hyacinth is associated with arid and rocky environments, and is characterized by its ability to grow in harsh environmental conditions. It has been recorded in rocky reefs, volcanic areas, and lava fields, reflecting its adaptation to desert and semi-desert environments.



Uses



The plant known as *Haloxylon persicum* is a native wild plant, and its aerial parts have been traditionally used by some local populations. Its chemical composition and essential oils have also been studied. However, laboratory studies of its extracts do not, in themselves, provide conclusive evidence of proven therapeutic efficacy in humans.



natural spread



Ducrosia flabellifolia is naturally found in parts of the Levant, Iraq, Iran and the Arabian Peninsula. In Saudi Arabia it is found in a number of desert and rocky locations, especially in the northern and central regions, including areas in Hail and the lava fields.



Preservation status



Botanical sources indicate that Ducrosia flabellifolia is a scientifically accepted species with a natural range that includes Saudi Arabia. However, available sources do not provide a clear global classification from the IUCN Red List that would allow for the inclusion of a specific conservation category. Its distribution in the Kingdom is relatively limited.