Reseda muricata is an annual herb native to North Africa and the Middle East. In Qatar, it has been found growing in sandy and rocky areas, often in disturbed or overgrazed habitats. It produces small white or yellowish flowers from February to May. This plant is one of several Reseda species identified in Qatar, contributing to the country's diverse flora.
Spherical seed pods of Reseda muricata with ants in desert near industrial zone of Ras Laffan, north from Doha. Qatar, March 23, 2013
Globular seed pods of Reseda muricata with ants in desert near industrial zone of Ras Laffan, north from Doha. Qatar, March 23, 2013
Blooming desert plant Reseda muricata (local name showla) near a road to Sawda Natheel in southern Qatar, February 11, 2014
Reseda muricata (local name showla) in sand near Umm Bab in south-western Qatar, February 21, 2014
Small plant of Reseda muricata (local name showla) in a runnel north from Dukhan in western Qatar, March 3, 2014
Flowers on a small plant of Reseda muricata (local name showla) in a runnel north from Dukhan in western Qatar, March 3, 2014
Reseda muricata near a beach in Marouna. Northern Qatar, December 19, 2014
Reseda muricata (local name showla) in a runnel north from Dukhan. Qatar, February 13, 2015
Reseda muricata (local name showla) near Al Khor Hospital. Qatar, March 7, 2015
Flower spikes of Reseda muricata taken from area near Al Khor Hospital. Qatar, March 7, 2015
Flower spike of Reseda muricata (local name showla) in area of Jabal Al Jassasiya, on north-eastern coast. Qatar, January 29, 2016
Inflorescence of Reseda muricata (local name showla) in a runnel north from Dukhan. Qatar, February 20, 2016
Flower spike of Reseda muricata (local name showla) in a runnel north from Dukhan. Qatar, February 20, 2016
Flowers of Reseda muricata (local name showla) in a runnel north from Dukhan. Qatar, February 20, 2016
Green fruits of Reseda muricata (local name showla) in a runnel north from Dukhan. Qatar, February 20, 2016
AI-generated summary of observations
Reseda muricata has been observed in various locations across Qatar, including the desert near Ras Laffan, southern Qatar, and western Qatar. The plant has been found to produce spherical seed pods that attract ants. It blooms with small flowers and can be seen growing in sandy areas, runnels, and near roads. The plant is also known locally as "showla". Observations have been made at different times of the year, including February, March, and December, suggesting that the plant can thrive in Qatar's desert environment throughout the year. It has been spotted near industrial zones, hospitals, and coastal areas, indicating its ability to adapt to different habitats. The plant's inflorescence and flower spikes have also been observed, as well as its green fruits. Overall, Reseda muricata appears to be a hardy and adaptable plant in Qatar's environment.