Silene affinis, Silene nabathaea
Arabian catchfly, terba
Silene arabica is a perennial herb native to the Middle East and North Africa. In Qatar, it has been found to grow in sandy soils and rocky areas, typically blooming from February to May. The plant produces white or pink flowers and has hairy, lance-shaped leaves. Studies in Qatar have reported Silene arabica as a common species in the country's flora, often associated with other desert plants such as Zygophyllum and Lycium. Its presence in Qatar highlights the country's unique biodiversity despite its arid environment.
Observations of Silene arabica in Qatar revealed that the plant can be found in various locations, including near Fuwairit, Jabal Al Jassasiya, and Rawdat Jarra. The plant was observed to bloom in February and March, with white flowers. In northern Qatar, it was found south from Fuwairit and near the coast. The plant's inflorescence and flowers were also observed in detail. Silene arabica was found to grow on planes and in areas with rocky terrain. The local name for the plant is "terba". Overall, the observations suggest that Silene arabica is a common plant species in Qatar, found in various habitats and blooming during the winter months. Its distribution and flowering patterns were documented through photographs taken in different locations.
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.