Andropogon avenaceus, Andropogon crupina, Andropogon decolorans, Andropogon dubitatus, Andropogon dubius, Andropogon halepensis, Andropogon sorghum, Blumenbachia halepensis, Holcus decolorans, Holcus exiguus, Holcus halepensis, Milium halepense, Rhaphis halepensis, Sorghum crupina, Sorghum decolor, Sorghum decolorans, Sorghum dubium, Sorghum saccharatum, Sorghum schreberi, Trachypogon avenaceus
Helaiyat, Johnson grass, safrand
Sorghum halepense, commonly called Johnson grass, is a plant in the grass family, Poaceae, native to the Mediterranean region, but growing throughout Europe and the Middle East. The plant has been introduced to all continents except Antarctica, and most larger islands and archipelagos. It reproduces by rhizomes and seeds.[+]
Sorghum halepense, also known as Johnson grass, is a perennial grass native to the Mediterranean region. In Qatar, it has been naturalized and is considered an invasive species. Studies have found that S. halepense is widely distributed in Qatar, particularly in areas with fertile soil and adequate moisture, such as agricultural fields, roadsides, and coastal regions. It can outcompete native vegetation and is often associated with disturbed habitats. The plant's ability to tolerate high temperatures, drought, and salinity makes it well-suited to Qatar's arid environment.
Observations of Sorghum halepense in Qatar reveal that the plant is commonly found in areas with center-pivot irrigation, such as the Green Circles in Irkhaya Farms. Seeds of the plant were observed on November 15, 2014, and close-up photos of the seeds were taken. In Al Luqta area, a grass spikelet of Sorghum halepense was found near a water leakage site on March 13, 2015. Later observations in Irkhaya Farms on February 26, 2016, showed the plant growing with distinct spikes and spikelets. Close-up photos of the plant's spikelets were also taken, providing detailed views of its structure. The presence of Sorghum halepense in these areas suggests that it is adapted to thrive in irrigated environments in Qatar. The plant's growth and seed production were consistently observed across different dates and 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.