Home Page > Picture Archives > > Cistaceae > Helianthemum lippii
Cistus lippii, Helianthemum albicans, Helianthemum lavandulifolium, Helianthemum rosmarinifolium
Cistum sessiliflorum, Helianthemum sessiliflorum, ragroug
Helianthemum lippii is a species of flowering plant in the rockrose family. It is native to North Africa and the Middle East. In Qatar, it has been found growing in sandy and rocky areas, often in association with limestone outcrops. Studies have reported its presence in various locations throughout the country, including the Dukhan and Umm Bab regions. The plant's small, yellow flowers bloom from February to May, and its leaves are typically grayish-green and densely hairy. Despite being relatively rare, Helianthemum lippii is considered an important part of Qatar's unique flora, and conservation efforts have been made to protect its habitats.
Helianthemum lippii (local name raqrouq), a host plant for truffles, desert mushrooms that are gathered in spring. Harrarah, 40 miles south-west from Doha, Qatar, March 12, 2010
Seedling of Helianthemum lippii (local name raqrouq) in sand near Trainah in southern Qatar, February 14, 2014
خط الوكير، Qatar
Helianthemum lippii (local name raqrouq) in a runnel north from Dukhan in western Qatar, March 3, 2014Abdulla Bin Jasim Street, Dukhan, Qatar
Caterpillar feeding on Helianthemum lippii in a runnel north from Dukhan in western Qatar, March 3, 2014Abdulla Bin Jasim Street, Dukhan, Qatar
Accumulation of seeds of Helianthemum lippii on the ground on rocky ridge of Jebel Fuwairit. Northern Qatar, March 19, 2016Fuwyrit Beach Rd, QatarHelianthemum lippii is observed to be a host plant for truffles in Qatar, with sightings in various locations including Harrarah, Trainah, and Dukhan. The plant is found growing in sandy areas, such as near Trainah, and in runnels, like those north of Dukhan. Caterpillars are also seen feeding on the plant, indicating its role in supporting local insect life. Additionally, seeds of Helianthemum lippii accumulate on the ground, as observed on the rocky ridge of Jebel Fuwairit, suggesting that the plant is able to disperse and propagate in these areas. These observations highlight the plant's presence and interactions with its environment in different parts of Qatar. The sightings span several years, from 2010 to 2016, providing a glimpse into the plant's ecology and distribution in the region.
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.