Erodium glaucophyllum, also known as Heron's Bill, is an annual or biennial herb native to Mediterranean and Middle Eastern regions. In Qatar, it has been found growing in sandy areas, plains, and near coastal zones. Studies suggest that E. glaucophyllum blooms from January to April, producing pink or purple flowers with five petals. Its leaves are typically pinnate, with 3-5 leaflets. The plant's adaptability to Qatar's arid environment allows it to thrive in areas with low vegetation and limited rainfall.
Rosette of drying leaves of storkbill (Erodium glaucophyllum?) in desert near industrial zone of Ras Laffan, north from Doha. Qatar, March 23, 2013
Flower of storkbill (Erodium glaucophyllum) on a roadside near Zubara. Qatar, March 28, 2015
Flower and fruits of storkbill (Erodium glaucophyllum) on a roadside near Zubara. Qatar, March 28, 2015
Storkbill (Erodium glaucophyllum) from a roadside near Zubara. Qatar, March 28, 2015
Plant of storkbill (Erodium glaucophyllum) on roadside in Dukhan. Qatar, January 15, 2016
Storkbill (Erodium glaucophyllum) on roadside of Al Shamal Road. Northern Qatar, February 9, 2016
Blooming plant of storkbill (Erodium glaucophyllum) on roadside in Dukhan. Qatar, February 20, 2016
Flower of storkbill (Erodium glaucophyllum) on a rocky ridge in Jabal Al Jassasiya, on north-eastern coast. Qatar, March 26, 2016
Storkbill (Erodium glaucophyllum) on a rocky ridge in Jabal Al Jassasiya, on north-eastern coast. Qatar, March 26, 2016
Storkbill (Erodium glaucophyllum) with fruits near a rocky ridge in Jabal Al Jassasiya, on north-eastern coast. Qatar, March 26, 2016
AI-generated summary of observations
The plant Erodium glaucophyllum has been observed in various locations in Qatar, including the desert near Ras Laffan, roadside near Zubara, Dukhan, and Jabal Al Jassasiya. It has been spotted with drying leaves, flowers, and fruits at different times of the year, from January to March. The plant grows on roadsides, rocky ridges, and in deserts, indicating its adaptability to different environments. Observations were made over several years, from 2013 to 2016, suggesting that the plant is a common sight in Qatar's landscape. The blooming plant has been seen in Dukhan and Jabal Al Jassasiya, with flowers and fruits present on the same plant, indicating its reproductive cycle. Overall, Erodium glaucophyllum appears to be a widespread and resilient species in Qatar. Its presence has been documented in northern and coastal areas of the country.