Seeds of the local henna tree

Common name: Henna (Baladi) Scientific name: Lawsonia Inermis Also called: Henna, Yarna, Rqan, Rqoun, and Arqan Henna A fast-growing plant that reaches the size of a small tree. Henna has an irregular growth pattern and is highly branched. The plant can grow up to 6 meters tall. The bark is brown to grayish in color. The small leaves are pale green with a grayish tint and oval-shaped. Flowers of the Baladi Henna tree: Its flowers are fragrant, usually white, sometimes reddish in color, arranged in unlimited clusters that appear in summer. Fruits and seeds of the Baladi Henna tree: The fruit is a spherical capsule, green to violet in color, containing many seeds. Season for germinating the Baladi Henna tree: The planting process is done before November, and by December, the leaves fall off, and the plant stops growing. However, it resumes its natural growth at the beginning of March. It can also be cultivated year-round in agricultural protected areas, enclosed or plastic places where temperature can be controlled, sunlight is accessible, or adequate lighting is available for the plant. Suitable climate and soil for cultivating the Baladi Henna tree: It is preferred to grow in hot areas with temperatures not less than 22°C, in semi-shaded places, away from strong air currents. It can survive in most well-drained soils but is most vigorous in low-acid soils. It needs moderate watering and heavy watering in summer to improve its appearance. It is best grown in rocky and sandy terrains. Method of cultivating the Baladi Henna tree: Propagation is by seeds or cuttings. The seed coat must be treated with pre-germination procedures such as scratching or soaking in water before planting. Its benefits and uses: Used in cosmetics due to its strong colorfastness; it dyes hands, feet, and hair with its paste. Some extract perfume from its flowers. It is also used in leather and wool tanning. Original habitat of the Baladi Henna tree: North Africa and southwestern Asia.