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Aizoon hispanicum, Aizoon sessiliflorum
Jafnah, thummam
Aizoon hispanicum is an annual succulent herb native to the Mediterranean region. In Qatar, it has been found to grow in coastal and inland areas, often in sandy or saline soils. It is a small, spreading plant with fleshy leaves and stems, typically growing up to 10-20 cm tall. The plant produces small, white or pinkish flowers in the spring. In Qatar, Aizoon hispanicum has been recorded in various locations, including coastal plains, sabkhas, and sandy dunes, where it can tolerate high temperatures and saline conditions. Its presence in Qatar indicates a Mediterranean-Indian Ocean biogeographic link, highlighting the country's unique position at the crossroads of these two floristic regions.
Forking stems of Aizoon hispanicum (Aizoanthemum hispanicum, local name jafna) near a road to Zubara in north-western Qatar, February 22, 2014
Al Shamal Road, Qatar
Aizoon hispanicum (Aizoanthemum hispanicum, local name jafna) near a road to Zubara in north-western Qatar, February 22, 2014Al Shamal Road, Qatar
Caterpillar feeding on Aizoon hispanicum (Aizoanthemum hispanicum, local name jafna) near Ras Laffan. Northern Qatar, February 28, 2014Al Shamal Road, Qatar
Flower of Aizoon hispanicum (Aizoanthemum hispanicum, local name jafna) near Ras Laffan. Northern Qatar, February 28, 2014Al Shamal Road, Qatar
Flower of Aizoon hispanicum (Aizoanthemum hispanicum, local name jafna) with approaching caterpillar near Ras Laffan. Northern Qatar, February 28, 2014Al Shamal Road, Qatar
Caterpillar munching Aizoon hispanicum (Aizoanthemum hispanicum, local name jafna) near Ras Laffan. Northern Qatar, February 28, 2014Al Shamal Road, Qatar
Aizoon hispanicum (Aizoanthemum hispanicum, local name jafna) with fruits in silty depression near Ras Laffan. Northern Qatar, February 28, 2014Al Shamal Road, Qatar
Aizoon hispanicum (Aizoanthemum hispanicum, local name jafna) among Spergula near Ras Laffan. Northern Qatar, February 28, 2014Al Shamal Road, Qatar
Aizoon hispanicum (Aizoanthemum hispanicum, local name jafna) with flower and seeds near Ras Laffan. Northern Qatar, February 28, 2014Al Shamal Road, Qatar
Aizoon hispanicum (Aizoanthemum hispanicum, local name jafna) in area of Ras Laffan farms. Northern Qatar, February 28, 2014Al Shamal Road, Qatar
Aizoon hispanicum (Aizoanthemum hispanicum, local name jafna) on a roadside east from Al Jebail water treatment plant. Al Khor, Qatar, January 23, 2016Unnamed Road, Qatar
Flower of Aizoon hispanicum (Aizoanthemum hispanicum, local name jafna) on a roadside east from Al Jebail water treatment plant. Al Khor, Qatar, January 23, 2016Unnamed Road, QatarObservations of Aizoon hispanicum in Qatar revealed its presence in various locations, including near roads to Zubara and Ras Laffan, as well as in areas with silt and silty depressions. The plant was found to have forking stems and produce flowers, which were sometimes approached by caterpillars that fed on the plant. Fruits were also observed on the plant, indicating its ability to reproduce in the region. Additionally, Aizoon hispanicum was seen growing among other plants, such as Spergula, and in areas with different soil types, including silt. The plant's local name is "jafna" and it was observed in northern Qatar during the months of February and January, suggesting its adaptability to the region's climate. Caterpillars were seen feeding on the plant, indicating its role in the local ecosystem.
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