Centopodium spinosum, Rumex glaber, Rumex spinosus, Vibo spinosa
DHers al ajooz, hambaz, hanzab, Prickly Dock
Emex spinosa, commonly known as "devil's thorn" is an annual herbaceous plant of the Polygonaceae. It originates in the warmer parts of the old world, but now has spread with man to other places. It is common in disturbed areas, aspecially in sandy soils. It has shown some weedy behaviour in restricted areas within southern Australia.
Emex spinosa, also known as devil's thorn or three-cornered jack, is a annual herb native to Africa and Asia. In Qatar, it has been naturalized and is considered an invasive species. It is characterized by its triangular seeds with sharp spines, which can cause injury to humans and animals. Studies in Qatar have reported Emex spinosa as a common weed in urban areas, roadsides, and disturbed habitats, particularly in the northern regions of the country. Its presence has been linked to human activities such as construction and land disturbance, highlighting the need for management strategies to control its spread and mitigate potential environmental impacts.
Prickly Dock (Emex spinosa) was observed growing on roadsides and in sandy areas throughout southern and western Qatar. It was found in various locations, including near Trainah, on Salwa Road, and near Zubara, between February 2014 and March 2016. The plant was seen in different stages of growth, from seedlings to mature plants with flowers. In some areas, such as Irkhaya Farms, it was growing in soil irrigated by center-pivot irrigation systems. The seedlings were often found in roadside depressions or on planes of sand, suggesting that they can thrive in a variety of environments. Local names for the plant include "drs al ajooz" and "hanzab". Female flowers with three thorns were also observed, indicating the plant's ability to produce seeds and propagate.
www.catalogueoflife.org
QNHG (Qatar Natural History Group) and associated people, for a possibility to participate in their field excursions and to learn about local nature.