Terania frutescens
Barometer bush, cenizo, Texas silverleaf
Leucophyllum frutescens is an evergreen shrub in the figwort family, Scrophulariaceae, native to the state of Texas in the southwestern United States and the states of Coahuila, Nuevo León, and Tamaulipas in northern Mexico. Although commonly known as Texas Sage, it is not a true sage and is distinct from the genus Salvia. The species is also called Texas Ranger, Texas Rain Sage, Cenizo, Texas Silverleaf, Ash-bush, Wild Lilac, Purple Sage, Senisa, Cenicilla, Palo Cenizo, or Hierba del Cenizo.[+]
Leucophyllum frutescens, also known as Texas Sage, is an evergreen shrub native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. In Qatar, it is commonly cultivated as an ornamental plant due to its drought tolerance and attractive purple flowers. Studies in Qatar have shown that L. frutescens can thrive in the country's hot and dry climate, with some research suggesting its potential for use in urban landscaping and roadside plantings. Its water-efficient nature makes it a popular choice for gardens and public spaces in Qatar, where water conservation is a priority.
Observations of Leucophyllum frutescens in Qatar reveal its presence in urban parks. In a park at Al Intisar Street near Onaiza, Cenizo was spotted on May 3, 2015, and again on December 1, 2015. The plant's ability to thrive in Doha's climate is notable, as it was observed during both spring and winter months. Its presence in a park setting suggests that it can tolerate urban conditions and potentially be used as an ornamental plant. The fact that it was seen at the same location on two different dates, several months apart, indicates that it is a hardy and adaptable species. Overall, these observations highlight the plant's potential for use in landscaping and gardening in Qatar's arid climate. Its drought tolerance and ability to survive in urban environments make it a valuable species for consideration.
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.