Young grass Cutandia memphitica on rocky ridge of Jebel Fuwairit. Northern Qatar, January 29, 2016Cutandia dichotoma, Cutandia scleropoides, Dactylis memphitica, Festuca caspica, Festuca divaricata, Festuca memphitica, Sclerochloa memphitica, Scleropoa caspica, Scleropoa memphitica
Memphis grass
Cutandia is a genus of Asian and Mediterranean plants in the grass family. It is native to lands extending from Portugal and Cape Verde to Pakistan and Kazakhstan.[+]
Cutandia memphitica is an annual grass native to North Africa and the Middle East. In Qatar, it has been found growing in sandy and saline areas, often in association with other desert plants. It is a small, tufted grass that can tolerate high temperatures and salinity, making it well-suited to Qatar's arid environment. Local studies have reported its presence in various regions of the country, including the northern and central areas, where it grows during the winter months.
Grass of Cutandia memphitica in sand on rocky ridge of Jebel Fuwairit. Northern Qatar, January 29, 2016
Young spike of grass Cutandia memphitica on dunes south from Fuwairit. Northern Qatar, February 9, 2016
Grass Cutandia memphitica in dew on a rocky ridge of Jebel Fuwairit. Northern Qatar, February 19, 2016
Spikelets of grass Cutandia memphitica in dew on a rocky ridge of Jebel Fuwairit. Northern Qatar, February 19, 2016
Close up of grass Cutandia memphitica in dew on a rocky ridge of Jebel Fuwairit. Northern Qatar, February 19, 2016
Grass Cutandia memphitica in sand on a rocky ridge of Jebel Fuwairit. Northern Qatar, February 19, 2016
Spike of grass Cutandia memphitica in dew on a rocky ridge of Jebel Fuwairit. Northern Qatar, February 19, 2016
Grass Cutandia memphitica in sand on a rocky ridge of Jebel Fuwairit. Northern Qatar, February 19, 2016
Close up of grass Cutandia memphitica on a rocky ridge of Jebel Fuwairit. Northern Qatar, February 19, 2016Cutandia memphitica was observed growing on rocky ridges and dunes in Northern Qatar, specifically on Jebel Fuwairit and south from Fuwairit. The grass was found in various stages of growth, including emerging flower spikes, young grass, and mature spikes with spikelets. It was often seen growing in sand or dew-covered areas, suggesting it can thrive in a range of conditions. Observations were made over several weeks, from January 29 to March 19, 2016, indicating the grass is active during this period. The plant's ability to grow on rocky ridges and dunes suggests it is adapted to Qatar's arid environment. Close-up observations revealed details of the grass's spikelets and overall appearance, providing a comprehensive understanding of Cutandia memphitica in its natural habitat.
www.theplantlist.org
QNHG (Qatar Natural History Group) and associated people, for a possibility to participate in their field excursions and to learn about local nature.