Blooming bush of Ochradenus aucheri near Abu Nahlah Road, south from Doha. Qatar, March 5, 2014Homalodiscus aucheri, Homalodiscus major, Ochradenus dewittii
Ochradenus aucheri is a shrubby perennial plant native to the Middle East and North Africa. In Qatar, it has been found growing in sandy and rocky areas, often in association with limestone outcrops. The plant produces small white or yellowish flowers and has edible leaves and stems, which are used as a vegetable by local communities. Research studies have documented its presence in various regions of Qatar, highlighting its adaptability to the country's arid environment and potential uses in traditional medicine and food sources.
Bush of Ochradenus aucheri with seeds and some flowers on a roadside near Abu Nahlah. Qatar, April 25, 2014
Bush of Ochradenus aucheri on periphery of Green Circles (center-pivot irrigation) in Irkhaya (Irkaya) Farms. Qatar, May 1, 2015
Blooming bush of Ochradenus aucheri on periphery of Green Circles (center-pivot irrigation) in Irkhaya (Irkaya) Farms. Qatar, May 1, 2015
Ochradenus aucheri with flowers and fruits on periphery of Green Circles (center-pivot irrigation) in Irkhaya (Irkaya) Farms. Qatar, May 1, 2015
Fruits of Ochradenus aucheri taken from periphery of Green Circles (center-pivot irrigation) in Irkhaya (Irkaya) Farms. Qatar, May 1, 2015
Blooming bush of Ochradenus aucheri on roadside of a road to Sawda Natheel. Southern Qatar, March 18, 2016
Blooming bush of Ochradenus aucheri on stony ground on roadside of a road to Sawda Natheel. Southern Qatar, March 18, 2016Ochradenus aucheri was observed blooming near Abu Nahlah Road, south from Doha, in March 2014, with flowers and seeds present. By April 2014, seed capsules were visible, and the bush continued to produce seeds and some flowers. In May 2015, the plant was found on the periphery of Green Circles in Irkhaya Farms, where it bloomed and produced fruits. The following year, in March 2016, Ochradenus aucheri was observed growing in a runnel near a road to Sawda Natheel, as well as on stony ground and roadside areas, often as an isolated bush. The plant's ability to thrive in various environments, including roadsides and irrigated areas, was noted. Its blooming period appeared to be in March, with seeds and fruits present in April and May.
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.